Topical regional neuro-affective therapy with cannabinoids

ABSTRACT

A method of treating a disease state or condition in humans via topical brainstem afferent stimulation therapy via the administration of a cannabinoid drug(s) to the back of the neck of a human patient to provide regional neuro-affective therapy is disclosed. In certain preferred embodiments, the cannabinoid drug(s) are not psychoactive or substantially not psychoactive. In certain embodiments, the cannabinoid drug(s) are incorporated into a pharmaceutically acceptable topical carrier, e.g., a cream. In certain preferred embodiments, the cannabinoid drug(s) comprises cannabidiol.

This application claims priority to U.S. Application No. 62/126,757, filed on Mar. 2, 2015 and U.S. Application No. 62/299,260, filed on Feb. 24, 2016; the disclosures of which are hereby incorporated by reference herein.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The invention relates to topical regional neuro-affective therapy (“TRNA THERAPY”) with cannabinoids, such as cannabidiol (CBD). This is accomplished via administration of effective amounts of these agents on the back of the neck.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The approximate 2½ pound human brain is comprised of the most complex material known to man. The neuron, the primary functional cell of the nervous system, operates on the basis of electrical impulses that result in the release of neurochemical substances (neurotransmitters) at specific receptors: dopamine, serotonin, acetylcholine, norepinephrine, gamma-amino butyric acid (GABA), and many others. There are estimated to be 80-100 billion (10 times the world population) neurons in the average human brain. These neurons, in turn, make 200-300 billion coded connections with other neurons to accomplish the complex tasks of the human body.

The brainstem serves as the vital pathway for relay and processing of neural impulses flowing continuously between the brain and the rest of the body. It is about the size of the thumb and contains the most dense and complicated wiring systems in the human body. In addition to the axons and dendrites (wires) that carry nerve impulses, the brainstem also contains critical nuclei that function as electrical generators and relays. Some of the nuclei are related to cranial nerve function while others serve as generators and impulse centers for pain perception, the autonomic system “fight or flight” response, wakefulness and alertness, as well as cardio-respiratory and related autonomic functions.

The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is involved in regulating a variety of physiological processes including appetite, pain and pleasure sensation, immune system, mood, and memory. Endocannabinoid receptors in the brain interact with cannabinoids from different sources, including (endocannabinoids (brain derived, e.g., from foods (Omega-3s and Omega-6s); phytocannabinoids (plant derived, e.g., from buds, tinctures, extracts, including tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), cannabidiol (CBD), cannabinol (CBN), etc.); and synthetic cannabinoids (such as tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)). Cannabinoids are a diverse class of chemical compounds that act on cannabinoid receptors on cells and influence neurotransmitter release in brain. These receptor proteins include endocannabinoids produced naturally in humans and animals, phytocannabinoids in cannabis and some other plants, and chemically manufactured synthetic cannabinoids. Phytocannabinoid Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the primary psychoactive compound of cannabis. Cannabidiol (CBD) is another major constituent of the plant, and comprises up to 40% extracts of plant resin. At least 85 different cannabinoids isolated from cannabis exhibit varied effects.

There is no greater example of a “double-edged sword” in medical therapeutics than medical marijuana. While benefits for treating symptoms of diverse neurologic and psychiatric conditions have been known and practiced by ancient civilizations for thousands of years, marijuana's psychoactive effects have also led to abuse and labeling as a “gateway drug” for more addictive compounds. There is no class of therapeutic compounds with more controversy and stigma than cannabinoids, active components of the cannabis plant.

The U.S. Government has indicated there is no medical benefit for marijuana and classified it Controlled Substance Category 1, as heroin. It is considered by federal law, illegal to possess or use cannabis and its associated products. However, increasing number of states have challenged this position and legalized cannabis within their territories with varying restrictions and conditions for use. Even then, within individual states, such as in Colorado, marijuana laws vary greatly from county to county.

Although defined under U.S. federal law as having no medical use, U.S. Pat. No. 6,630,507 is held by the United States Department of Health and Human Services, covering use of cannabinoids for treating a wide range of diseases. It is directed to a method of treating diseases caused by oxidative stress comprising administering a therapeutically effective amount of a cannabinoid (e.g., cannabidiol) that has substantially no binding to the NMDA receptor to a subject who has a disease caused by oxidative stress.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

It is an object of the present invention to provide a method of treatment in humans with topical afferent neural activation therapy via the regional administration of one or more cannabinoids useful for the treatment of such diseases or conditions that may be treated via such therapy.

It is an object of the present invention to provide a method for the treatment of seizures; encephalopathy, including lethargy, focus/attentional problems, and cognitive issues: spasticity; weakness; pain, including radiculopathy and neuropathy; numbness; anxiety and other mood disorders; hypertension; Parkinson's disease; insomnia; as well as any other disease or condition that may be treated with a cannabinoid.

It is an object of the present invention to provide a method for the treatment of seizures; epilepsy; encephalopathy, including lethargy, focus/attentional problems, and cognitive issues; spasticity; weakness (e.g., muscle weakness); pain, including radiculopathy and neuropathy, lower back pain, and fibromyalgia; numbness and/or tingling; anxiety and other mood disorders; hypertension and autonomic dysfunction; Parkinson's disease and tremors; insomnia; Bell's palsy and facial nerve dysfunction; glaucoma, AIDS; cancer, PTSD; trigeminal neuralgia; hemi-facial spasms; Autism/Asperger's; attention Deficit Disorder and Hyperactivity; social isolation; occipital neuralgia; TMJ dysfunction related symptoms; cognitive problems including memory disturbance; headaches (migraine and tension); peripheral neuropathy; as well as other conditions or disease states mentioned herein or any other disease or condition that may be treated with a cannabinoid.

The above objects and others are attained by virtue of the present invention, which is directed in part to a method of treating a disease state or condition in a human patient via topical regional neuro-affective (TRNA) or regional neuro-affective (RNA) therapy via administration of a drug at the back of the neck region, or the back of the neck. e.g., at the hairline (BONATH). The drug is one or more cannabinoids, administered at the back of the neck at the hairline in close proximity to and under or on the area of skin above the brain stem to provide regional neuro-affective therapy to the human patient.

In certain preferred embodiments, the cannabinoid drug(s) is derived from an endocannabinoid, a phytocannabinoid, a synthetic cannabinoid, or mixtures of any of the foregoing. In certain preferred embodiments, the cannabinoid comprises cannabidiol.

In certain preferred embodiments, the cannabinoid drug mixture concentrate includes from about 0 to about 3% tetrahydrocannabinol, from about 0 to about 1% tetrahydrocannabinolic acid, from about 20 to about 50% cannabidiol, from about 0 to about 1% cannabidiolic acid, and from about 0 to about 1% cannabinol, for a total active cannabinoid level of from about 20% to about 50%, and the remaining cannabinoids are substantially therapeutically inactive.

In certain preferred embodiments, the cannabinoid drug(s) are incorporated into a pharmaceutically acceptable topical formulation. In certain preferred embodiments, the cannabinoid drug(s) in the topical pharmaceutical formulation are at a concentration from about 0.75% to about 5%, by weight. In certain embodiments, the unit dose of the cannabinoid drug(s) includes from about 1 mg to about 200 mg cannabinoid drug(s) and the cannabinoid drug(s) comprise at least 80% cannabidiol. In certain preferred embodiments, a unit dose of the topical pharmaceutical formulation comprises from about 3 mg to about 50 mg cannabidiol.

In certain preferred embodiments, the pharmaceutically acceptable topical formulation comprises a topical aqueous-based carrier, with an optional penetration enhancer.

In certain preferred embodiments, the method further comprises applying a sufficient amount of the topical pharmaceutical formulation to the back of the neck region of the human patient such that the onset of a therapeutic effect occurs in less than about 30 minutes, or in less than 15 minutes. The topical pharmaceutical formulation may be administered (applied to the back of the neck region) on a once a day basis, or on a twice a day basis, a three times a day basis, or on a four times a day basis.

In certain embodiments, the patient is treated for a condition or disease state selected from the group consisting of seizures, encephalopathy, spasticity, weakness, pain, numbness, anxiety, hypertension, Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis, and insomnia. In other embodiments, wherein the patient is treated for a condition selected from the group consisting of lethargy, focus/attentional problems, and cognitive issues. In other embodiments, the patient is treated for a condition selected from the group consisting of radiculopathy and neuropathy. In yet other embodiments, the patient is treated for numbness, or a mood disorder.

In certain embodiments, the method further comprises further comprises topically administering at the back of the neck region (e.g., BONATH) together with, sequentially, or simultaneously but in separate formulations, an additional drug(s) selected from the group consisting of: an anti-epileptic, an anxiolytic, a neuroleptic, an anti-psychotic, an analgesic, an anti-inflammatory, an anti-Parkinson's disease/syndrome drug, a drug for the treatment of dystonia, a drug for the treatment of spastic conditions, a drug for the treatment of benign essential/familial tremor, a drug for the treatment of tremor related to MS, a drug for the treatment of chronic encepahalopathies, a drug for the treatment of congenital CNS degeneration conditions/cerebral palsy, a drug for the treatment of cerebellar degeneration syndromes, a drug for the treatment of neuropathic and/or neurogenic pain, a drug for appetite suppression, a drug for neurodegenerative conditions, a drug for the treatment of multiple sclerosis, a drug for the treatment of insomnia, a drug for the treatment of fatigue, a drug for the treatment of vertigo, nausea and/or dizziness, a drug for the treatment of writer's cramp and restless leg syndrome, other drugs which can beneficially be added to the treatment in order to provide an additive or synergistic effect with respect to treating the patient's disease state or condition; and a combination of any of the foregoing. In certain embodiments, the additional drug(s) is a dopamine agonist selected from the group consisting of apomorphine, pramipexole, ropinirole, bromocriptine, cabergoline, pergolide, rotigotine, entacapone, tocapone, seligiline, dopamine, and mixtures of any of the foregoing. In other embodiments, the disease state or condition is Parkinson's disease and/or related syndromes/diseases. In other embodiments, the additional drug(s) is selected from the group consisting of the drug is a dopamine agonist, COMT inhibitors, MAO-B inhibitors, and mixtures of any of the foregoing. In other embodiments, the additional drug(s) is an anti-epileptic drug selected from the group consisting of Valproic acid, Leviteracetem, Lamotrigene, Topiramate, Pregabalin, Gabapentin, Carbamazepine, Oxcarbazepine, Phenobarbital and other barbiturates, Tiagabine, Retigabine, Lacosamide, Perampanel, and mixtures of any of the foregoing; or the additional drug(s) is an anxiolytic, a neuroleptic and/or an antipsychotic; or the additional drug(s) is an analgesic and/or an anti-inflammatory; or the additional drug(s) is used in the treatment of neuropathic and/or neurogenic pain; or the additional drug(s) is for multiple sclerosis; or the additional drug(s) is for insomnia; or the additional drug(s) is for fatigue; or the additional drug(s) is for vertigo, nausea and/or dizziness; or the additional drug(s) is for writer's cramp and restless leg syndrome; or the additional drug(s) is a tricyclic antidepressant (TCA), a tetracyclic antidepressant, or an atypical antipsychotic.

In certain preferred embodiments, the drug is formulated in a pharmaceutically acceptable immediate release topical carrier. In certain preferred embodiments, the topical carrier is aqueous based, and may be a cream or gel.

In certain preferred embodiments, the method further comprises formulating the cannabinoid drug(s) in a pharmaceutically acceptable immediate release aqueous-based carrier.

In other embodiments, the cannabinoid drug(s) is administered in a topical pharmaceutical formulation comprising liposomes.

In certain preferred embodiments where the cannabinoid drug(s) are administered in a topical pharmaceutical formulation, the method further comprises applying a sufficient amount to the back of the neck region, e.g., BONATH of the human patient such that the onset of clinical effect occurs in less than about 30 minutes, and in certain preferred embodiments in less than about 15 minutes.

In certain preferred embodiments, the therapeutically effective amount of the cannabinoid drug(s) is applied as a unit dose comprising from about 0.25 mg to about 80 mg.

In certain preferred embodiments, the cannabinoid drug(s) is incorporated into a sustained release transdermal delivery system which is capable of delivering from about 0.25 mg to about 1000 mg of the cannabinoid drug(s) through the skin of a human patient over a 24 hour period, the transdermal delivery system being capable of delivering the cannabinoid drug(s) in such amounts for a time period from about 1 to about 7 days.

In certain embodiments, the cannabinoid drug(s) is administered via implantation or injection at the BONATH, or is administered via injection in an immediate release pharmaceutically acceptable carrier for injection. In certain embodiments, the cannabinoid drug(s) is administered via injection or implantation in a controlled release carrier to provide a prolonged effect of the cannabinoid drug(s). In certain embodiments, the cannabinoid drug(s) is administered to create a depot under the skin at the BONATH.

Certain embodiments of the invention are directed to a topical formulation, comprising a cannabinoid drug(s) in a pharmaceutically acceptable aqueous-based carrier, the cannabinoid drug(s) being incorporated into the carrier in at least one unit dose comprising from about 0.25 mg to about 80 mg cannabinoid drug(s). Preferably, when applied in a unit dose to the back of the neck of the human patient the topical formulation provides an onset of clinical effect occurs in less than about 30 minutes.

The invention is also directed to a topical formulation, comprising a cannabinoid drug in a formulation suitable for administration at the back of the neck at the hairline in close proximity to and under or on the area of skin above the brain stem of a human patient to provide regional neuro-affective therapy to the patient. The topical formulation may be prepared as an immediate, controlled or sustained release formulation.

The drug formulations useful in the present invention may be in a form selected from a topical formulation (e.g., a cream, ointment or gel); a transdermal device; or an implantable or injectable formulation.

The invention is further directed to the use of a cannabinoid drug in the preparation of a medicament for providing regional neuro-affective therapy to a human patient, wherein the drug is administered at the back of the neck at the hairline in close proximity to and under or on the area of skin above the brain stem to provide regional neuro-affective therapy to the patient.

In certain embodiments, the cannabinoid drug is applied to the posterior cervical region of the human in order to initiate the brainstem afferent stimulation therapy. Most preferably, the topical formulation or topical therapeutic system is applied to the back of the neck, preferably in close proximity to or on the area of skin above the brain stem.

In other embodiments, the cannabinoid drug is administered via implantation or injection at the back of the neck, e.g., on the back of the neck at the hairline (BONATH). In such embodiments, the therapy is accomplished via the availability of the drug(s) at the free nerve endings under the epidermis. In such embodiments, the drug may be incorporated into an implantation device or may be incorporated into a carrier such as a gel or matrix that will provide a prolonged release/effect of the cannabinoid drug(s) at the site. The carrier may be a hydrophilic or hydrophobic material, a colloidal material, and may be in a state ranging from a viscous liquid to a solid polymeric insert.

Certain embodiments of the invention are directed to a method of treatment, comprising delivering a cannabinoid drug(s) through regional neuro-affective therapy by application as a cream/gel or a sustained release patch applied at the back of the neck, or via administration under the skin at the back of the neck via an implantable or injectable drug formulation or device.

In certain embodiments, the method further provides for a therapeutically effective treatment through topical regional neuro-affective (TRNA) therapy by application of a drug(s) as a cream/gel or a sustained release patch applied at the back of the neck without the side-effects and the other draw-backs of the current injection method.

In certain preferred embodiments, the cannabinoid drug(s) is administered at the back of the neck (e.g., BONATH) in an immediate release topical formulation in a dose comprising from about 0.25 mg to about 200 mg of the cannabinoid drug(s), and in certain embodiments more preferably from about 1 to about 50 mg of the cannabinoid drug(s). In certain preferred embodiments, the cannabinoid drug(s) are in a more potent form (e.g., crystallized CBD from a herbal source), and the dose is from about 10 mg to about 20 mg. In certain other embodiments, the immediate release topical formulation includes from about 1 mg to about 10 mg cannabidiol, preferably from about 2 mg to about 6 mg cannabidiol, and most preferably about 4 mg cannabidiol.

In certain preferred embodiments, the method of treatment further comprises administering the cannabinoid drug(s) to other areas of the spine and/or peripheral nerves in addition to administration on or at the back of the neck, in order to provide an additive or synergistic effect and further modulate afferent neural input to the brain to affect efferent outflow for relief of symptoms.

In certain preferred embodiments, the method of treatment further comprises topically administering at the back of the neck together with, sequentially, or simultaneously but in separate formulations, one or more additional active agents (“drugs”) which may be chosen from the following: an anti-epileptic, an anxiolytic, a neuroleptic, an anti-psychotic, an analgesic, an anti-inflammatory, an anti-Parkinson's disease/syndrome drug, a drug for the treatment of dystonia, a drug for the treatment of spastic conditions, a drug for the treatment of benign essential/familial tremor, a drug for the treatment of tremor related to MS, a drug for the treatment of chronic encepahalopathies, a drug for the treatment of congenital CNS degeneration conditions/cerebral palsy, a drug for the treatment of cerebellar degeneration syndromes, a drug for the treatment of neuropathic and/or neurogenic pain, a drug for appetite suppression, a drug for neurodegenerative conditions, a drug for the treatment of multiple sclerosis, a drug for the treatment of insomnia, a drug for the treatment of fatigue, a drug for the treatment of vertigo, nausea and/or dizziness, a drug for the treatment of writer's cramp and restless leg syndrome, and other drugs which can beneficially be added to the treatment in order to provide an additive or synergistic effect with respect to treating the patient's disease state or condition.

For purposes of the present invention, the term “back of the neck” or “back of the neck region” is intended to encompass the area or region extending from (behind) one ear to the other ear of the human patient and from the back of the head (i.e., above the neck) to below the hairline at the back of the neck of the human patient.

For purposes of the present invention, a “topical formulation” includes, for example, ointments, creams, lotions, pastes, gels, etc., which releases one or more drugs (e.g., cannabinoid drug(s)s) at a predetermined rate over a defined period of time to a defined site of application.

For purposes of the present invention, an “injectable” formulation includes, for example, an injectable solution, suspension, gel or the like and may be in immediate release form or may provide a controlled or sustained release of the drug at the site of administration.

For purposes of the present invention, the term “immediate release” means that the cannabinoid drug(s) is administered at the site of application (e.g., the back of the neck) and is available for immediate absorption at the site of application. In other words, the term “immediate release” is meant to convey in terms of a topical formulation the fact that there is nothing in the formulation (e.g., a sustained release carrier) that would delay or slow the availability of the drug at the site of application (in contrast to, e.g., a transdermal device or patch).

For purposes of the present invention, an “implantable” formulation includes, for example, a solid, semisolid or liquid drug formulation which can be administered at the back of the neck (e.g., BONATH) either via injection and/or via surgical implantation. The solid may comprise microspheres, microcapsules, pellets, discs, and the like. The implantable formulations of the invention may provide a controlled or sustained release of the drug at the site of administration.

For purposes of the present invention, a “transdermal therapeutic system” is defined as a drug-containing device (including e.g., patch, disc, etc.) which releases one or more drugs at a predetermined rate over a defined period of time to a defined site of application.

For purposes of the present invention, “transdermal” delivery is the delivery by passage of a drug through the skin and into the bloodstream (“traditional” transdermal delivery) and is termed “transdermal systemic drug delivery (TSD therapy).

For purposes of the present invention, the term “topical neuro-affective therapy” is synonymous with the more accurately termed topical regional neuro-affective therapy (or “TRNA therapy”). This term describes important aspects of this delivery method: topical, regional (near brainstem and cervical spinal cord), and affecting the free nerve endings of the afferent nervous system, thereby not requiring the presence of drug in the blood, as with systemic therapies which includes the transdermal patch wherein the skin is used to have drug enter into the bloodstream through a continuous application patch. In such situations, an ionotophoretic electric current generator may be required to cause drug entry into blood against a concentration gradient.

For purposes of the present invention “therapeutically effective” or “effective” amount is meant to be a nontoxic but sufficient amount of a cannabinoid compound(s) to provide the desired therapeutic effect.

For purposes of the present invention, an “effective” amount of a permeation enhancer as used herein, for example, means an amount that will provide the desired increase in skin permeability and, correspondingly, the desired depth of penetration, rate of administration, and amount of drug to be delivered.

For purposes of the present invention, the term “delivers” when used with respect to the topical formulation or transdermal therapeutic system means that the formulation or system provides a mean relative release rate or flux of the drug out of the formulation or system and through the skin of the patient.

By “predetermined area of skin” is intended a defined area of intact unbroken living skin. In certain embodiments of the present invention, the predetermined area will be in the range of about 1 cm2 to about 100 cm2, preferably in the range of about 10 cm2 to about 100 cm2, more preferably in the range of about 20 cm2 to about 60 cm2. However, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art of topical delivery that the area of skin through which drug is administered may vary significantly, depending on the formulation, dose, the application of the formulation, and the like.

“Penetration enhancement” or “permeation enhancement” for purposes of the present invention relates to an increase in the permeability of skin to a pharmacologically active agent. i.e., so as to increase the rate at which the drug permeates through the skin and enters the bloodstream. The enhanced permeation effected through the use of such enhancers can be observed by measuring the rate of diffusion of drug through animal or human skin using a diffusion cell apparatus.

For purposes of the present invention, the “brainstem afferent stimulation therapy region” is defined as the skin region of the head and/or at the frontotemporal region and/or upper posterior cervical area. In certain preferred embodiments, the treatment area is the post cervical area in close proximity to the brain stem. Preferably this area is a relatively hairless area of the patient's head and/or neck.

For purposes of the present invention, the drug may be in the form of the base, or may be provided as a pharmaceutically acceptable salt (inorganic or organic) or complex. It may be in an optically pure form or a mixture of stereoisomers.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a sectional side view of a human showing the relationship of upper cervical nerves at the back of the neck, to the trigeminal and vagus nerves and brainstem;

FIG. 2 is an EEG showing a baseline EEG of the patient of Example 13;

FIG. 3 is a post-treatment EEG (i.e., after application of a topical unit dose of cannabinoid drugs) of the patient of Example 13 at 5 minutes after the start of therapy; and

FIG. 4 is a post-treatment EEG (i.e., after application of a topical unit dose of cannabinoid drugs) of the patient of Example 13 at and 8 minutes after the start of therapy;

FIG. 5 is a pre-treatment EEG of the patient of Example 14 showing right fronto-central excessive beta and sharp waves:

FIG. 6 is a post-treatment EEG of the patient of Example 14 showing right fast activity and sharp waves attenuated;

FIG. 7 is a pre-treatment EEG of the patient of Example 15 showing seizure focus.

FIG. 8 is a post-treatment EEG of the patient of Example 15 showing right fast activity and sharp waves attenuated;

FIG. 9 is a pretreatment EEG of the patient of Example 16 showing left fronto-central seizure focus;

FIG. 10 is a post-treatment EEG of the patient of Example 16 showing attenuated seizure focus:

FIG. 11 is a pretreatment EEG of the patient of Example 17 showing cortical irritability on the left central region c/w potential for seizures;

FIG. 12 is a post-treatment EEG of the patient of Example 17 showing attenuated seizure focus;

FIG. 13 is a post-treatment Brain MRI of the patient of Example 17 showing a left thalamic hamartoma.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The therapeutically active agents used in the formulations and methods of the invention comprise cannabinoid drug(s). Cannabinoids are a diverse class of chemical compounds that act on cannabinoid receptors on cells and influence neurotransmitter release in brain. These receptor proteins include endocannabinoids produced naturally in humans and animals, phytocannabinoids in cannabis and some other plants, and chemically manufactured synthetic cannabinoids. Endo, phyto and/or synthetic cannabinoids cause neurotransmitter release which results in nerve transmission. Phytocannabinoid Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), is primary psychoactive compound of cannabis. Cannabidiol (CBD) is another major constituent of the plant, up to 40% extracts of plant resin. Cannabidiol (CBD) is one of many active cannabinoids in cannabis. The cannabinoid may be derived from endocannabinoids (derived, e.g., from foods (Omega-3s and Omega-6s); phytocannabinoids (plant derived, e.g., from buds, tinctures, extracts, including tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), cannabidiol (CBD), cannabinol (CBN), etc.); and synthetic cannabinoids (such as tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)). At least 85 different cannabinoids isolated from cannabis exhibit varied effects. In certain preferred embodiments, the cannabinoid drug(s), or are not psychoactive or are substantially not psychoactive (meaning that if included in the formulation, they are not in sufficient amount that a unit dose of the formulation would cause the patient to have a psychoactive effect). In certain preferred embodiments, as will be explained further below, the cannabinoid drug is actually a mixture of two or more cannabinoids (e.g., CBD and THC together in a CBD:THC ratio that provides a therapeutic effect while substantially not psychoactive or not psychoactive at all).

The endocannabinoid system (“ECS”) consists of a group of endogenous cannabinoid receptors located in mammalian brain and throughout the central and peripheral nervous systems. These entail neuromodulatory lipids and their associated receptors. As the body's “endogenous,” cannabinoid system. ECS is involved in a variety of physiological processes including neurological functions dealing with pain, mood, memory; and, movement, and sensation. The body's immune function and cell homeostasis is also maintained by ECS. It mediates the psychoactive effects of the cannabis (marijuana) plant. Cannabinoids are a diverse class of compounds that include many of the unique compounds found in marijuana.

Cannabinoids produce physiological and behavioral effects through interaction with specific membrane-bound receptors. Two primary endocannabinoid receptors have been identified: CB1 and CB2. There is mounting evidence that more endocannabinoid receptors exist. CB1 receptors are found predominantly in brain (specifically in basal ganglia and limbic system, including hippocampus) and nervous system, as well as in peripheral organs and tissues. These are acted on by the endocannabinoid binding molecule Anandamide. Of G protein-coupled type receptors (GPCR) in human brain, cannabinoid receptors are the most plentiful. CB1 receptors responsible for euphoric and anti-convulsive effects of cannabis. CB2 receptors found only in peripheral nervous system appear responsible for anti-inflammatory effect such as pain relief. One other main endocannabinoid is 2-Arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG), active at both CB1 and CB2 cannabinoid receptors. Its mimetic phytocannabinoid is cannabidiol (CBD), while that of Anandamide is THC, responsible for psycho-active effects. 2-AG and CBD are involved in regulation of appetite, immune system functions and pain management.

Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) has been the primary focus of cannabis research since 1964, when Raphael Mechoulam isolated and synthesized it. More recently, the synergistic contributions of cannabidiol to cannabis pharmacology and analgesia have been scientifically demonstrated. Other phytocannabinoids, including tetrahydrocannabivarin, cannabigerol and cannabichromene, exert additional effects of therapeutic interest. Innovative conventional plant breeding has yielded cannabis chemotypes expressing high titres of each component for future study.

Cannabidiol (CBD) is considered the “medical component” of cannabis and hemp. CBD is considered to have a wide scope of medical applications. It acts as 5-HT1A receptor agonist which may explain its antidepressant, anxiolytic, and neuroprotective effects. Cannabidiol modulates opioid receptors involved with pain perception. CBD is not psychoactive and relieves convulsion, inflammation, anxiety, and nausea. It has also been found to play a role in preventing short-term memory loss from THC. Antipsychotic effects of cannabidiol represent potential treatment of schizophrenia. Oral CBD formulation received orphan drug status in US as treatment for Dravet syndrome, an intractable seizure disorder also known as Severe Myoclonic Epilepsy of Infancy (SMEI). Nabiximols, trade name Sativex, is an aerosolized mist for oral administration containing 1:1 ratio of CBD and THC approved 2005 in Canada for multiple sclerosis associated pain. CBD has a greater affinity for CB2 than CB1 receptor.

CBD acts as serotonin (5-HT1A) receptor agonist which may explain its antidepressant, anxiolytic, and neuroprotective effects. CBD modulates opioid receptors involved with pain perception. CBD is not psychoactive and relieves convulsion (seizures), inflammation, anxiety, and nausea. It has been found to play a role in preventing short-term memory loss from THC. Antipsychotic effects of cannabidiol represents potential treatment of schizophrenia. CBD has a greater affinity for CB2 than CB1 receptors.

Strains of cannabis containing higher CBD concentrations did not produce short-term memory impairment compared to those with similar concentrations of THC, but lower CBD concentrations. Attenuation of memory effects attributed to CBD's function as CB1 antagonist. Transdermal CBD has been shown to be neuroprotective in animals. Antioxidant properties of cannabidiol have been shown to play a role in its neuroprotective and anti-ischemic effects. Animal experiments indicate CBD may help in treating Parkinson's disease.

It is known to those skilled in the art that studies have suggested that many cannabinoid compounds work together to produce a synergy of effects. This is known as the ‘entourage effect.” Thus, in certain preferred embodiments, the formulations of the invention contain more than one cannabinoid compound, which provide an “entourage effect.”

CBD has anti-psychotic effects which may counteract psychotomimetic effects of THC, euphoric and hallucinogenic component of cannabis. Reports show CBD safe and well-tolerated alternative treatment for schizophrenia. A double blind trial comparing purified cannabidiol to atypical antipsychotic amisulpride in acute paranoid schizophrenia showed both treatments were associated with significant decrease in psychotic symptoms after 2 weeks; but cannabidiol was associated with significantly fewer side effects. Studies show cannabidiol affects limbic system, decreasing symptoms of social anxiety and isolation. Cannabidiol has demonstrated antidepressant-like effects in animal models of depression.

In certain preferred embodiments, the cannabinoid is not psychoactive, or only mildly psychoactive. Cannabidiol (CBD) is not psychoactive, and therefore in certain preferred embodiments, the active cannabinoid drug comprises cannabidiol, or consists essentially of cannabidiol, or consists of cannabidiol. In other preferred embodiments, cannabidiol comprises from about 5% to about 99.9% of the total amount of cannabinoid drug(s) included in the formulations and treatments of the present invention. In other preferred embodiments, cannabidiol comprises about 20%, about 30%, about 40%, about 50%, about 60%, about 70%, about 80%, about 90% or more, or greater than about 95% of the total amount of cannabinoid drug(s) included in the formulations and treatments of the present invention. In certain embodiments, the CBD is derived from crystalline powder, such that the powder is about 95% pure CBD or greater. In other preferred embodiments, cannabidiol comprises at least about 20% of the total amount of cannabinoid drug(s) included in the formulations and treatments of the present invention. In other embodiments, the cannabinoid drug comprises cannabinol (which is only mildly psychoactive). In certain embodiments, the cannabinoid drug(s) contained in the formulations of the invention is hemp CBD. In other embodiments, the cannabinoid drug(s) is cannabis-based and comprises a THC-CBD (and optionally other cannabinoid combinations derived from cannabis). As CBD and THC have different mechanisms of action, they may act synergistically. e.g., to control seizures. In such embodiments, the therapeutic effect may be via the “entourage effect”.

In other embodiments, the drug is a cannabinoid such as an endocannabinoids (derived, e.g., from foods (Omega-3s and Omega-6s); a phytocannabinoid (plant derived, e.g., from buds, tinctures, extracts, including tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), cannabidiol (CBD), cannabinol (CBN), etc.); and synthetic cannabinoids (such as tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)), mixtures thereof, and the like. Further representative cannabinoids useful in the present invention include cannabigerol (CBG), cannabichchromene (CBC), cannabicyclol (CBL), tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV), cannabidivarin (CBDV), cannabichromevarin (CBCV), cannabigerovarin (CBGV), delta-8-tetrahydrocannabinol, delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Dronabinol), cannabigerol monomethyl ether (CBGM), nabilone, rimonabant (SR141716, a selective cannabinoid (CB₁) receptor inverse agonist), JWH-018, JWH-073, CP-55940, dimethylheptylpyran, HU-331, SR 144528 (a selective CB₂ receptor agonist), levonantradol, AM-2201, beta-caryophyllene, lipophilic alkamides (alylamides) which have affinity for the CB₂ receptor, and chemical derivatives of any of the foregoing. In certain embodiments, a synthetic cannabinoid is used. Synthetic cannabinoids encompass a variety of distinct chemical classes: the classical cannabinoids structurally related to THC, including the nonclassical cannabinoids (cannabimimetics) including the aminoalkylindoles, 1,5-diarylpyrazoles, qualene18p, and arylsulfonamides, as well as eicosanoids related to the endocannabinoids. Cannabigerol (“CBG”) is non-psychotomimetic but still impacts the overall effects and affects of cannabis. CBG acts as a alpha2-adrenergic receptor agonist, 5-HT1A receptor antagonist. CB1 receptor antagonist, and also binds to the CB2 receptor. CBC is non-psychoactive, and exhibits anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. Evidence suggests that CBC may play a role in anti-inflammatory and anti-viral effects, may have antidepressant effects, may promote neurogenesis, and may contribute to the overall analgesic effects of cannabis. Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Dronabinol; commercially available in the U.S. under the tradename Marinol) is used as an appetite stimulant, anti-emetic, and analgesic. Nabilone (Cesamet, Canemes), a synthetic cannabinoid and an analog of Marinol; Rimonabant (SR141716), a selective CB1 receptor inverse agonist once used as an anti-obesity drug under the tradename Acomplia, and was also used for smoking cessation.

In certain embodiments, the cannabinoid drug(s) is industrial hemp or a non-psychoactive hemp product.

In yet further embodiments, the cannabinoid drug(s) comprises a natural cannabinoid compound, a synthetic cannabinoid compound, a semi-synthetic cannabinoid compound, or mixtures thereof. Illustrative of such compounds are cannabinoids or cannabinoid analogues selected from the group consisting of cannabinol, cannabidiol, delta 9-tetrahydrocannabinol, delta 8-tetrahydrocannabinol, hydroxy-tetrahydrocannabinol, 11-hydroxy-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, levonantradol, delta 11-tetrahydrocannabinol, tetrahydrocannabivarin, dronabinol, amandamide, nabilone, a natural or synthetic analogue thereof, a natural or synthetic molecule with a basic cannabinoid structure, and mixtures of any of the foregoing.

In certain embodiments, the cannabinoid drug(s) included in the treatment and/or formulations of the present invention comprise a ligand that binds to the CB₁ or the CB₂ receptor.

Cannabis terpenoids (e.g., limonene, myrcene, α-pinene, linalool, β-caryophyllene, caryophyllene oxide, nerolidol and phytol) share a precursor with phytocannabinoids, and are all 19quale and fragrance components common to human diets that have been designated Generally Recognized as Safe by the US Food and Drug Administration and other regulatory agencies. Terpenoids are quite potent, and affect animal and even human 19qualene when inhaled from ambient air at serum levels in the single digits ng·M1-1. They display unique therapeutic effects that may contribute meaningfully to the entourage effects of cannabis-based medicinal extracts. Thus, in certain embodiments, the formulations and treatments of the present invention include an active drug component which comprises both a phytocannabinoid(s) and a terpenoid(s). Phytocannabinoid-terpenoid interactions may produce synergy with respect to treatment of pain, inflammation, depression, anxiety, addiction, epilepsy, cancer, fungal and bacterial infections (including methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus).

Administration at the Back of the Neck

The cannabinoid drug formulations of the present invention are preferably applied at the back of the neck region of the human patient. In its broadest sense, the term “back of the neck” or “back of the neck region” is intended to encompass the area or region extending from (behind) one ear to the other ear of the human patient and from the back of the head (i.e., above the neck) to below the hairline at the back of the neck of the human patient. More preferably, the administration of the cannabinoid drug(s) is located more directly at the back of the neck in the area above the cervical nerve roots. C1-C4 (and optionally including C5) such that administration of the cannabinoid drug(s) are in the area at or above the skin where the afferent components of trigeminal nerve system, cervical sympathetic nerves, and vagus nerve are located. In certain preferred embodiments, the back of the neck is more specifically the back of the neck at or around the hairline of the patient, which is an area more directly above the C1-C4 cervical nerve roots (this area is referred to herein as “BONATH”). It is to be understood that application at the back of the neck is not an exact art, and application of part or all of the dose in proximity to the back of the neck (e.g., behind the ears or on the skin higher (on the back of the head) or lower (below the hairline, and even below the C5 area) than directly above the C1-C4 cervical nerve roots will still provide a therapeutically effective dose in accordance with the invention; however, such locations are not optimal and may cause a lessening of the therapeutic effect or a delay in onset of therapeutic effect. All such treatments are considered to fall within the definition of “back of the neck” for purposes of the present invention.

The administration of a cannabinoid drug(s) at the back of the neck is a novel way to deliver cannabinoids. This is believed to be accomplished by activation of cutaneous afferent pathways through neuro-chemical receptors existing on free nerve-endings. The hypothesis of this therapeutic modality is based on presence of numerous (hundreds of thousands to millions) of free nerve-endings below the skin surface (stratum corneum) at upper posterior cervical region, the back of the neck or “nuchal” region. There exist at this location, direct connections through cervical nerve roots, C1-C4, and occasionally, C5, to afferent components of trigeminal nerve system, cervical sympathetic nerves, and vagus nerve providing significant input to CNS. At no other location on the human body is such a magnitude of afferent neural input accessible through skin nerve-endings than here. Modulated CNS efferent neural outflow in response to afferent activation manifests as improvement in clinical symptoms of MS and other conditions of brain and spinal cord impairment. By using direct nerve pathways, by-passing blood flow and avoiding restrictions of “blood-brain-barrier,” onset of therapeutic time is greatly reduced and systemic side effects are avoided.

The inventor has observed rapid therapeutic onset of action, generally, less than 10 to 15 minutes administration of cannabinoid drug(s) at the back of the neck, with maximal benefit noted well within 30 minutes. In certain embodiments, a prolonged therapeutic effect has been noted, e.g., about 4 to about 12 hours or more, depending on condition and severity of the condition being treated.

The peripheral nervous system (PNS) communicates with central nervous system (CNS, consisting of brain, brainstem, and spinal cord) through dorsal root ganglia which reside just outside the spine and act as neural relay areas between PNS and CNS. The human skin has free nerve endings just below the skin surface (stratum corneum), which are the peripheral end components of spinal dorsal root ganglia. As skin and CNS are both derived from the same embryological tissue, neuro-ectoderm, receptors to neurotransmitters and other substances used in neural communication are similarly represented on both free nerve endings and CNS. This makes sense as the skin needs to communicate directly with CNS with respect to external stimuli. In fact, these receptors are on the cell surface of skin free nerve endings, making them readily accessible to compounded drug applications to the skin for neural effect, “topical neuro-affective therapy.” The binding of the topically administered cannabinoid drug(s) to these receptors results in electrical action potential generation and propagation to CNS, causing therapeutic effects to occur. As such, these same drug compounds do not need to enter the bloodstream to reach their sites of activity, as it is with systemic delivery. Systemic side effects and drug activity at sites other than intended are therefore not present. Further, by working through established neural pathways than through the blood stream, the therapeutic effects are rapid, generally with 15-30 minutes or less. Many of the current drugs used systemically for peripheral conditions such as pain are thought to work by their effect on dorsal root ganglia, modulating neural impulses to brain. With topical neuro-affective therapy the effects on dorsal root ganglia are direct and immediate as free nerve endings are peripheral extensions of the ganglia.

An important aspect of the benefits of “TRNA” or “RNA” therapy in CNS drug delivery for brainstem related disorders lies in the anatomy of the region. The free nerve endings with receptors for the neuro-chemicals dopamine, serotonin, norepinephrine, and others are located just below the surface of the skin, easily assessable to drugs compounded in an appropriate dermal penetration enhancing medium and topically applied to the skin.

To understand the concept of “peripheral neural afferent stimulation therapy” as it applies to the brainstem and how topical drug delivery to the back of the neck works requires a review of the neuro-anatomy and the neuro-physiology of the region. As indicated above, this area of the nervous system is very complicated, compact and highly inter-active and inter-related.

The Trigeminal Nerve System is a component of the brainstem which coordinates pain input from the face, head, and the back of the neck. As such, it intimately influences the production of other symptoms associated with syndromes attributed to dysfunction within the trigeminal complex. These include the photophobia, phonophobia, nausea, anxiety, allodynia, and other focal sensory symptoms which may accompany a migraine attack. Similarly, episodes of trigeminal neuralgia (tic douloreux) frequently involve significant affective (emotional) and visceral components. Because of proximity and connections to other structures in the brainstem, abnormalities of temperature regulation, thirst, alertness, and mood are common. Some of these symptoms may be as equally disabling as the head and face pain.

In addition to receiving pain and sensory (afferent) input from the face, nasal and para-nasal sinuses, the teeth, scalp, the dura of the anterior and middle cranial fossa, the trigeminal system receives similar input from the soft tissues of the posterior cervical region. The free nerve endings in the back of the neck are just below the surface of the skin, easily accessible to topically delivered drugs formulated in an appropriate dermal penetration enhancing compounding medium. The free nerve endings, via the small un-myelinated and myelinated “C-fibers” (pain fibers) carry pain impulses through afferent sensory nerves back to the Trigeminal Nucleus Caudalis (TNC). TNC is the pain processing center extending from the pons through the entire extent of the brainstem to the upper cervical spinal cord. After synapsing at the thalamus, pain impulses from TNC travel to the somatosensory cortex, where pain is perceived.

As providing important afferent input to the brain, the trigeminal system also receives afferent input from the rest of the body. Afferent input is defined as any neural impulses coming back to the brain from the body. As such it provides information to the brain for processing and interpretation: pain, sensation, autonomic functions. Efferent output, on the other hand, consists of impulses originating in the central nervous system (brain, brainstem, and spinal cord) flowing to the body for function: movement, response, action.

FIG. 1 is a sectional side view of a human showing the relationship of upper cervical nerves at the back of the neck, to the trigeminal and vagus nerves and brainstem. The vagus nerve includes both efferent and afferent fibers and is attached to the lower brainstem (medulla oblongata) via 8-10 radicles. The afferent fibers arise in the jugular and the nodose vagus ganglia. The somatic afferent fibers terminate in the nucleus of the trigemino-spinal tract (TNC). Both the jugular and the nodose ganglia are connected with the superior cervical sympathetic gangion through inter-communicating rami. The superior cervical sympathetic ganglion is located between the internal carotid artery and the jugular vein on the ventral aspects of the transverse processes of the 2^(nd), 3^(rd), and the 4^(th) cervical vertebrae. It is the largest of the sympathetic trunk ganglia.

Sympathetic roots arising from the ganglion join the 1^(st) and the 2^(nd) cervical nerves; frequently the 3^(rd), and occasionally, the 4^(th). In addition to nerve fibers which extend rostrally from the superior cervical sympathetic ganglion, the sympathetic innervation of the head includes fibers which join the plexi on the common carotid and the vertebrtal arteries. The one on the vertebral artery is continuous with the plexus on the basilar artery. Rami derived from the internal carotid plexus join the trigeminal nerve and the cavernous plexus in addition to the other structures such as the abducens and deep petrosal nerves. From the cavernous plexus, located in the middle cranial fossa, sympathetic fibers join the oculomotor, trochlear, and the ophthalmic nerves. Fibers from the plexus also accompany blood vessels into the hypophysis. The spheno-palatine gangion, located in the pterygo-palatine fossa, receives sympathetic fibers from the face with rami distributed to the mucous membranes of the nares, mouth, the pharynx, and some orbital structures.

From the above, it is clear that cervical nerve function is intimately related to vagal afferents and afferents from the face, head, and the dura of cranial fossae associated with migraine and other head and face pain syndromes.

It has been long reported that vagal nerve stimulation (VNS) in the neck down-regulates abnormal discharges from epileptic foci and treats seizures. VNS is now approved as adjunct to medical therapy in certain forms of intractable epilepsy. It is also of benefit in severe depression resistant to traditional drug therapy. Studies with VNS in migraine, anxiety, and fibromyalgia have been underway and have shown preliminary promise in benefit. The mechanism of action appears to be the down-regulation of hyper-excitable, dysfunctional neuronal systems by increased inhibitory input to brainstem and associated connections through stimulation of the afferent system. Afferent stimulation, by feed-back through TNC, causes reduction in efferent output from the brainstem, resulting in resolution of clinical symptoms through down-regulation of hyper-active neuronal structures.

In the same way the electrical stimulation of VNS accomplishes its effect on the brainstem, topical drug therapy to the posterior cervical region, in close proximity to the brainstem and its afferent inputs, is theorized to provide effect for the conditions mentioned above.

It is hypothesized that benefits of the present method of topical drug delivery of central nervous system (CNS) active drugs lies in the fact that drug concentration gradients and blood flow factors are un-involved in the therapeutic process. In contrast, the proposed delivery operates through direct nerve connections between skin peripheral nerves at the back of the neck, for example at the hairline (BONATH) and brainstem structures. Active drug compounded in an appropriate “dermal penetration enhancing” medium topically applied to the skin at the back of neck has effect on the free nerve endings of peripheral nerves located immediately below the skin surface. Receptors to dopamine, serotonin, norepinephrine, and other neuro-transmitters/neuro-chemicals involved with neural transmission are located on these free nerve endings. Therefore, topically applied drug has near immediate therapeutic effect as direct neural impulses are involved—the concept of brainstem afferent stimulation through topical regional neuro-affective (TRNA) therapy. All prior art and methods of drug delivery to the CNS have involved blood flow and therapeutic drug blood level requirements. The inventive method does not require such, which are the source of undesirable systemic and CNS side-effects. The present drug delivery process operates on the principle of an electrical capacitor whereas the prior relied on those fluid dynamics and reservoir principles.

The factors which determine the success of TRNA therapy include: the drug being considered, the compounding substance (surfactant/dermal penetration enhancer), the disease process, and the location of application. The free nerve endings in the skin at the back of the neck are important components of the cervical nerves with rich connections to the trigeminal, vagal, and sympathetic systems communicating with brainstem structures and other components of the central nervous system. These are the areas pain and other symptoms related to neuro-chemical release are processed and perceived.

The skin at the upper part of the back of the neck, at the hairline, is innervated by (supplied by nerves) the cervical nerve roots C1-3 that are also part of the Trigeminal Nerve system of the brainstem. These cervical nerves (the wires) have their cell bodies (their generators) within the Nucleus Caudalis (Spinal Nucleus) of the Trigeminal Nerve in the cervical spinal cord and the brainstem. Accordingly, they have direct neural connections with brainstem processing areas. At the same time, the peripheral nerve receptor sites for these nerves, the free nerve endings, reside under the skin surface at the back of the neck. The nerves in the soft tissues of the back of the neck, representing the C1, C2, and C3 segments of the cervical spinal cord are unique in that they have intimate connections with pathways directly affecting brainstem and autonomic system function. There are direct connections with the Trigeminal Nerve system of the brainstem which provides for pain and other sensory input and interpretation from the head, face, sinus cavities, the dural covering of the brain, and the back of the neck. There are also connections with the vagus nerve and the sympathetic nervous system through the sympathetic ganglia. It is through these connections, which are nowhere else in the body as inter-related or at such close proximity to the surface of the human skin, that the potential for the delivery of CNS acting drugs through the skin at the back of the neck (BONATH) is realized. Finally, skin is embryologically derived from neuro-ectoderm which is also responsible for the formation of the brain and other aspects of the CNS. Thus, the nerves in the human skin have a particularly direct relationship with these structures. This provides for the efficacy noted with TRN/back of the neck therapy. At the same time, systemic and other CNS side-effects are reduced or avoided. Thus, drugs topically applied to the skin in this region have ready access to brainstem and other CNS structures without the requirement of drug in the bloodstream reaching target sites.

In addition to the upper cervical nerves having direct relation to the Trigeminal Nerve System, they also contribute to the Cervical Sympathetic Ganglia and the Vagal Nerve Systems through direct connections. These latter two systems provide some of the most significant afferent feed-back to the brainstem and other portions of the CNS from the rest of the body. This allows for additional brainstem afferent stimulation potential through TRNA therapy at the back of the neck. Although skin at other areas of the face and head have eventual neural feed-back to the brainstem, the intimate connections to afferent feed-back systems are lacking.

The question arises then: does TRNA therapy work with drug application to the forehead, face, or other regions of the head. The answer is perhaps—in some disease states such as migraine and face pain; but not as effective and efficient as at the back of the neck or at the back of the neck at the hairline (BONATH). Free nerve endings are also present at these other locations but the distance back to involved brainstem structures is greater and there is not the added advantage of rich afferent neural connections to the trigeminal, vagal, and sympathetic nerve systems that are associated with the posterior cervical region.

TRNA therapy at the back of the neck or at the BONATH delivery differs from traditional therapy (whether oral, injection, nasal spray, inhalation, or rectal) in that it has no reliance on the systemic or cerebral blood flow. Nor does it require therapeutic blood levels of drug. These latter factors are responsible for systemic and CNS side-effects as drug is delivered to areas not intended to be affected in the therapeutic process. Transdermal systemic delivery by patch, although similarly applied to the skin as in TRNA therapy, differs significantly in its reliance on a drug concentration gradient for absorption into the systemic capillary and venous blood. TRNA therapy is unaffected by dermal vessels or systemic blood flow. It relies solely on the function of the free nerve endings of cutaneous nerves and their connections at the point of application of compounded drug.

“Traditional” transdermal drug delivery by patch and TRNA are both “transdermal” in that in both, drug penetrates the skin (epidermis) for eventual clinical effect. The difference lies in the fact that in “traditional” transdermal patch therapy, drug enters the systemic circulation through a concentration gradient and establishes a therapeutic drug blood level. Although measuring a blood level gives assurance drug is being taken or delivered systemically, allowing for checking compliance, it is also the source of undesirable side-effects and drug interactions. Of necessity, with systemic transdermal patch therapy, drug applied to the skin surface must be absorbed through the small vessels in the dermis for eventual presence in the systemic venous blood for measurement of drug level. With TRNA therapy, the cannabinoid drug(s) need only be available at the free nerve endings under the epidermis. No concentration gradients or systemic blood levels are necessary. Drug delivery is unaffected by cardiac output or cerebral blood flow factors. Of significance, persons afflicted with Parkinson's disease are typically elderly with concomitant cardiac and cerebral vascular disease.

Thus, in certain embodiments, the methods and formulations of the invention deliver an amount of drug (e.g., cannabinoid drug(s)) in the TRNA therapy that would provide sub-therapeutic plasma levels if administered orally, but which is therapeutically effective when administered via TRNA therapy at the back of the neck or at the BONATH.

It is hypothesized by the inventor that a principal reason TRNA therapy is rapid in the onset of clinical effect (e.g., less than about 10-15 minutes) for is that it operates through an “electro-chemical” process. Active drug compounded in an appropriate dermal penetration enhancing medium acts at free nerve endings, changing the neurochemistry of receptors at the neural synapse: apomorphine (dopamine and norepinephrine agonist), increasing dopamine and norepinephrine levels and improving neural transmission. After a point of receptor stimulation, neural (electrical) impulses are generated back to neuronal cell bodies residing in the spinal cord and brainstem: “afferent feed-back”. The nervous system functions through neurons generating electrical impulses and the release of neurochemicals/neuro-transmitters (serotonin, norepinephrine, dopamine, and acetylcholine, being the major ones) at neural receptor sites called “synaptic clefts”. Accordingly, the process in TRNA therapy may be considered analogous to an electrical capacitor discharging to perform a function, such as turning on a light switch. Viewed from this perspective, the rapid onset of clinical effect observed in TRNA therapy makes sense.

Alternatively, transdermal systemic patch delivery operates on the principles of chemical gradients and fluid dynamics. These processes have variability and inherent idiosyncrasies, fluctuating heart function as a pump for blood flow being one. Thus, despite the advantage of measurable drug levels, a more circuitous route with slower clinical effect is observed. This makes systemic transdermal patch delivery inappropriate for acute therapy.

Therapeutic Applications

Potential clinical applications of cannabinoids applied at the back of the neck in accordance with the present invention include the following: seizures; epilepsy; encephalopathy, including lethargy, focus/attentional problems, and cognitive issues; spasticity; weakness (e.g., muscle weakness); pain, including radiculopathy and neuropathy, lower back pain, and fibromyalgia; neuropathic pain; numbness and/or tingling; anxiety and other mood disorders; hypertension and autonomic dysfunction; Parkinson's disease and tremors, including Essential Tremor; insomnia; Bell's palsy and facial nerve dysfunction; glaucoma (marijuana is known to reduce pressure in the eye); multiple sclerosis (an extract that relieves pain and muscle spasms in MS patients has been approved in Europe and Canada, though not in the U.S. (Nabiximols, trade name Sativex, an aerosolized mist for oral administration containing 1:1 ratio of CBD and THC)), AIDS (one of the FDA-approved synthetic versions of a substance found in marijuana, (−)-trans-Δ⁹-tetracydocannabinol (generally referred to as dronabinol) helps increase appetite and treat weight loss in patients with the disease); cancer (dronabinol is also marketed in the U.S. to treat nausea associated with chemotherapy; researchers have reported CBD's ability to “turn off” the activity of ID1, a gene responsible for metastasis in breast and other types of cancers, including aggressive triple negative breast cancer; PTSD; trigeminal neuralgia; hemi-facial spasms; Autism/Asperger's; Attention Deficit Disorder and Hyperactivity; social isolation; occipital neuralgia; TMJ dysfunction related symptoms; cognitive problems including memory disturbance; headaches (migraine and tension); peripheral neuropathy; Dravet syndrome (an intractable seizure disorder also known as Severe Myoclonic Epilepsy of Infancy (SMEI)—an oral CBD formulation received orphan drug status in US as treatment for this condition); apnea (including central sleep apnea, obstructive sleep apnea syndrome, and mixed apneas (having components of central and obstructive sleep apneas); smoking cessation; arthritis, including rheumatoid arthritis; depression; emesis; anti-obesity; nausea; vomiting; alcohol use disorders; dystonia; inflammatory bowel syndrome; neuropathic pain associated with post-herpetic neuralgia; diabetic neuropathy; shingles; burns; actinic keratosis; oral cavity sores and ulcers; post-episiotomy pain; psoriasis; pruritis; contact dermatitis; eczema; bullous dermatitis herpetiformis; exfoliative dermatitis; mycosis fungoides; pemphigus; severe eryththema multiforme; seborrheic dermatitis; ankylosing spondylitis; psoriatic arthritis; Reiter's syndrome; gout; chondrocalcinosis; joint pain; dysmenorrhea; musculoskeletal pain; molymyositis; bursitis; epicondylitis; osteoarthritis; synovitis; pancreatitis; and other disease states and conditions which will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

In certain preferred embodiments, the cannabinoid drug(s) is formulated in a vehicle that allows for the drug to be immediately absorbable and available for the free nerve endings of the trigeminal nervous system which reside under the skin surface at the back of the neck when the formulation is. e.g., applied to the back of the neck of a human patient in the form of a cream, gel or ointment. On the other hand, it is contemplated in certain embodiments of the invention that the topical or implantable cannabinoid drug(s) formulation can be administered in the form that provides a prolonged release at the back of the neck, for example, in the form of a transdermal patch. The uniqueness of this particular area of the human anatomy which allows this delivery method to work. In further embodiments, the cannabinoid drug(s) is applied (i) in a topical form that provides a therapeutically effective dose of the cannabinoid drug(s) immediately absorbable at the site (back of the neck), and (ii) a further therapeutically effective dose(s) in a prolonged or sustained release formulation (e.g., a transdermal patch or contained in liposomes) that releases the cannabinoid drug(s) over time such that the cannabinoid drug(s) is absorbed at the back of the neck in therapeutically effective amounts over a span of multiple dosage time intervals (e.g., 1-7 days).

A unit dose of the topical formulation(s) of cannabinoid drug(s) used in accordance with the present invention preferably includes from about 1 mg to about 200 mg cannabinoid drug(s), based on the cannabinoid drug comprising at least 80% cannabidiol, in certain preferred embodiments at least 90% cannabidiol, and in certain further preferred embodiments at least 95% cannabidiol. In certain preferred embodiments, the amount of psychoactive cannabinoid drug(s) present in the topical formulations of the present invention is less than 20%, more preferably less than 10% or less than 5% of the total active cannabinoids in the topical formulation.

A representative cannabinoid drug mixture concentrate may include with respect to total active cannabinoids, for example, from about 0 to about 3% tetrahydrocannabinol, from about 0 to about 1% tetrahydrocannabinolic acid, from about 20 to about 50% cannabidiol, from about 0 to about 1% cannabidiolic acid, and from about 0 to about 1% cannabinol, for a total active cannabinoid level of from about 20% to about 50%. A particular cannabinoid concentrate useful in the formulations of the present invention may include, e.g., about 0.84% tetrahydrocannabinol, about 0.23% tetrahydrocannabinolic acid, about 26.41% cannabidiol, about 0% cannabidiolic acid, and about 0.09% cannabinol, for a total active cannabinoid level of about 27.58%, as detected using full spectrum cannabinoid profiling and analysis utilizing High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC/UV), and is commercially available from CannaVest. Such a cannabinoid drug mixture may provide the afore-mentioned entourage effect.

In certain embodiments, the topical cannabinoid formulation of the present invention is administered at the back of the neck on the human patient and a therapeutic effect is preferably provided within about 45 minutes, preferably within about 30 minutes, or 25 minutes, or 20 minutes, or 15 minutes, or 10 minutes after the administration. In certain preferred embodiments, a therapeutic effect is noticed within about 10 to about 15 minutes after the administration (e.g., application of the topical formulation to the back of the neck).

In certain embodiments, the topical cannabinoid formulation is administered on an “as needed” basis. In other embodiments, the topical cannabinoid formulation is administered on a once a day basis, or on a twice a day basis, or on a three times a day basis, or on a four times a day basis.

In certain preferred embodiments, a unit dose of the topical cannabinoid drug(s) formulation provides a cannabinoid (e.g., CBD) dose from about 0.1 mg to about 200 mg, and in certain embodiments more preferably from about 3 mg to about 50 mg or from about 7.5 mg to about 30 mg. This may be administered in a topical cream, ointment, gel or the like. For example, the topical formulation may be administered as a unit dose in an amount from about 0.5 g to about 1 g at a cannabinoid (e.g., CBD) concentration from about 0.1% to about 5% (or more).

Combination Therapy

In certain preferred embodiments of the invention, the cannabinoid(s) is administered together with (e.g., in the same formulation), or simultaneously (but separately) or sequentially with an additional active agent(s) (“drug(s)”) suitable for treating the patient's disease state or condition. Classes of drugs which would be suitable as an additional active agent(s) include, but are not limited to:

-   -   1. Anti-Epileptic drugs: Examples include Valproic acid         (Depacon®/Depakot®e), Leviteracetem (Keppra®), Lamotrigene         (Lamictal®), Topiramate (Topamax®), Pregabalin (Lyrica®),         Gabapentin (Neurontin®), Carbamazepine (Tegretol®),         Oxcarbazepine (Trileptal®), Phenobarbital and other         barbiturates, Tiagabine (Gabatril®). Retigabine™ (Valeant         Pharmaceuticals), Lacosamide® (Schwarz Biosciences), and         Perampanel® (Eisai) are in development as anti-epileptics and         neuromodulators for other associated neurological, pain, and         psychiatric conditions.     -   2. Anxiolytic drugs: Benzodiazepines: Examples include lorazepam         (Ativan®), diazepam (Valium®), clonazepam (Klonopin®),         chlordiazepoxide (Librium®), and alprazolam (Xanax®).     -   3. Neuroleptics/Anti-Psychotic drugs: Examples include         chlorpromazine (Thorazine®), haloperidol (Haldol®), risperidone         (Risperdal®), olanzapine (Zyprexa®) and quetiapine (Seroquel®).     -   4. Analgesics/Anti-Inflammatory drugs: Examples include         prednisone, solumedrol, and other steroids, naproxen, aspirin,         acetaminophen, voltaren, ketoprofen, ibuprofen, other NSAID's.     -   5. Parkinson's Disease/Similar or Related Syndrome drugs:         Examples include dopamine agonists such as apomorphine.     -   6. Dystonia (cervical and otherwise), which sometimes occur in         conjunction with spasmodic torticollis and spastic conditions:         Examples of drugs include dopamine agonists such as apomorphine.     -   7. Benign essential/familial tremor, tremor related to MS,         chronic encepahalopathies such as from stroke or head injuries,         congenital CNS degeneration conditions/cerebral palsy,         cerebellar degeneration syndromes, and spasicity conditions from         the above: Examples of drugs include dopamine agonists such as         apomorphine.     -   8. Neuropathic/Neurogenic pain drugs: Examples include         carbamazepine, gabapentin, topiramate, zonisamide, phenytoin,         desipramine, amitriptyline, imipramine, doxepin, protriptyline,         pentoxifylline, and hydroxyzine.     -   9. Smoking Cessation drugs: Examples include drugs such as         varenicline.     -   10. Appetite Suppressant drugs: Examples include drugs such as         Sibutramine.     -   11. Neurodegenerative Diseases: Examples include drugs such as         Aricept/donepezil. Exelon/rivastigmine,         Reminyl/Razadyne/galantamine, and Namenda/memantine and their         naturally occurring counterparts, as well as NMDA antagonists.     -   12. Multiple Sclerosis (MS): Examples include drugs such as         4-aminopyridine.     -   13. Insomnia: Examples include drugs such as zolpidem.     -   14. Fatigue: Examples include drugs such as pemoline and         Modafinil.     -   15. Vertigo, Nausea and/or Dizziness: Examples include drugs         such as meclizine, dimenhydrinate, prochlorperazine, scopolamine         and diphenhydramine.     -   16. Writer's cramp and restless leg syndrome: Examples include         dopamine agonists such as apomorphine.

In certain embodiments, the additional drug(s) includes a dopamine agonist such as apomorphine (Apokyn®, APO-go®), pramipexole (Mirapexin®), ropinirole (Requip®), bromocriptine (Parlodel®), cabergoline (Cabaser®, Dostinex®), pergolide (Permax®, Celance®) rotigotine (Neupro®), mixtures of any of the foregoing, or other dopamine agonists known to those skilled in the art. One skilled in the art will appreciate that dopamine agonists other than apomorphine may be used in the formulations and methods of the present invention, and all such agents are meant to be encompassed by the term “dopamine agonists.” For example, such drugs include, but are not limited to, carbidopa (Sinemet®), dopamine agonists (Requip®, Rotigotine®, Mirapex®), COMT inhibitors (Entacapone®, Tocapone), rasagiline (Azilect®) (MAO inhibitors) and MAO-B inhibitors (Selegiline (Eldepryl®).

In other embodiments, the additional drug(s) includes an opioid such as morphine, codeine, dihydrocodeine, hydrocodone, hydromorphone, nicomorphine, oxycodone, oxymorphone, fentanyl, alphamethylfentanyl, alfentanil, sufentanil, remifentanil, carfentanyl, ohmefentanyl, thebaine, oripavine, diacetylmorphine (heroin), phenylpiperidines such as pethidine (meperidine) and ketobemidone, allylprodine, prodine, propoxyphene, dextropropoxyphene, dextromoramide, bezitramide, piritramide, methadone, dipipanone, levomethadyl Acetate (LAAM), loperamide, diphenoxylate, dezocine, pentazocine, phenazocine, buprenorphine, dihydroetorphine, etorphine, butorphanol, nalbuphine, levorphanol, levomethorphan, lefetamine, meptazinol, tilidine, tramadol, tapentadol, mixtures thereof, and the like.

In yet other embodiments, the additional drug(s) is tarpentadol (a centrally acting oral analgesic having two mechanisms of action combining mu-opioid receptor agonism and norepinephrine reuptake inhibition).

In yet other embodiments, the additional drug(s) is a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor, such as Atomoxetine (Strattera®), Mazindol (Mazanor®, Sanorex®), Nisoxetine (LY-94939). Reboxetine (Edronax®, Vestra®), Viloxazine (Vivalan®), mixtures thereof, and the like.

In yet other embodiments, the additional drug(s) is a benzodiazepine, such as lorazepam (Ativan®), diazepam (Valium®), clonazepam (Klonopin®), chlordiazepoxide (Librium®), alprazolam (Xanax®), temazepam (Restoril®), mixtures thereof, and the like. In other embodiments, the drug is a neuroleptic or psychotropic such as chlorpromazine (Thorazine®), haloperidol (Haldol®), risperidone (Risperdal®), olanzapine (Zyprexa®) and quetiapine (Seroque®).

In other embodiments, the additional drug(s) is an agent that treats depression and/or anxiety, for example, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) such as fluoxetine (Prozac), sertraline (Zoloft®), venlafaxine (Effexor®), citalopram (Celexa®), parocetine (Paxil), mixtures thereof, and the like (such as trazodone (Desyrel)), and/or serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRI), such as Desvenlafaxine (Pristiq®), Duloxetine (Cymbalta®), Milnacipran (Ixel®, Savella®), Venlafaxine (Effexor@), mixtures thereof, and the like.

In yet other embodiments, the additional drug(s) is a norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitor (NDRI), such as Amineptine (Survector®), an aminoketone antidepressant such as Bupropion (Wellbutrin®, Zyban®), Dexmethylphenidate (Focalin), Methylphenidate (Ritalin®, Concerta®), Nomifensine (Merital®), a phenylpiperazine antidepressant such as nefazodone (Serzone®), a piperazino-azepine antidepressant such as mirtazapine (Remeron®), mixtures thereof, and the like.

In yet other embodiments, the additional drug(s) may be an NMDA receptor antagonist. Phencyclidine, ketamine, and dextromethorphan, are used as recreational drugs. At subanesthetic doses, however, these drugs have mild stimulant effects, and these agents have shown promise for the treatment of conditions that involve excitotoxicity, including traumatic brain injury, stroke, and neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and Huntington's.

Additionally, the additional drug(s) may be an agent that treats neuropathic/neurogenic pain (pain that arises from nerve dysfunction and not as a result of injury, e.g., trigeminal neuralgia), such as carbamazepine, gabapentin, topiramate, zonisamide, phenytoin, desipramine, amitriptyline, imipramine, doxepin, protriptyline, pentoxifylline, and hydroxyzine.

In other embodiments, the additional drug(s) treats insomnia, such as zolpidem (Ambien®).

In other embodiments, the additional drug(s) treats fatigue. Such drugs include central nervous system stimulants such as pemoline (Cylert®) and Modafinil (Provigil®).

In yet other embodiments, the additional drug(s) treats vertigo, nausea and/or dizziness, such as meclizine (Antivert®), dimenhydrinate (35qualene35), prochlorperazine (35qualene35®), scopolamine (Transderm®) and diphenhydramine (Benadryl®).

In yet other embodiments, the drug is a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI), such as Desvenlafaxine (Pristiq®), Duloxetine (Cymbalta®), Milnacipran (Ixel®, Savella®), Venlafaxine (Effexor®), mixtures thereof, and the like.

In yet other embodiments, the additional drug(s) is a tricyclic antidepressant (TCA), such as Amitriptyline (Elavil®), Butriptyline (Evadene®. Evadyn®e), Clomipramine (Anafranil®), Desipramine (Norpramin®, Pertofrane), Dosulepin (Prothiade), Doxepin (Adapin, Sinequan), Imipramine (Tofranil®), Lofepramine (Feprapax®, Gamanil®, Lomont®), Nortriptyline (Aventyl®, Nortrilen®, Pamelor®), Protriptyline (Vivacti®l), Trimipramine (Surmontil®), mixtures thereof, and the like.

In yet other embodiments, the additional drug(s) is a tetracyclic antidepressant, such as Amoxapine (Asendin®), Maprotiline (Ludiomil®), Mianserin (Tolvon®), mixtures thereof, and the like.

In yet other embodiments, the additional drug(s) is an atypical antipsychotic, such as Ziprasidone (Geodon®, Zeldox®), Nefazodone (Serzone®), and the like.

In yet other embodiments, the additional drug(s) is an anti-convulsant or anti-epileptic drug such as arylsulfonimide analogues such as Acetazolimide (Diamox)®, tricyclic iminostilbene derivatives such as carbamazepine (Tegreto®), benzodiazepines such as clonazepam (Klonopin®), clorazepate dipotassium (Tranxene®), lorazepam (Ativan®) and diazepam (Valium®), carboxylic acid derivatives such as valproic acid (Depakene®) and divalproex sodium (Depakote®), succinimide derivatives such as ethosuximide (Zarontin®), carbamate esters of 2-phenyl-1,3-propanediol such as felbamate (Felbatol®), hydantoins such as phenytoin (Dilantin®), phenytoin sodium (Dilantin®) and fosphenytoin sodium (Cerebyx®), structural analogues of GABA such as gabapentin (Neurontin®) and pregabalin (Lyrica®), phenyltriazines such as lamotrigine (Lamictal®), pyrrolidine derivatives such as levitiracetam (Keppra®), tricyclic iminostilbene derivatives such as 36qualene36pine (Trileptal), barbiturates such as Phenobarbital, desoxybarbiturates such as primidone (Mysoline®), nipecotic acid derivatives such as tiagabine hydrochloride (Gabitril®), sulfamated monosaccharides such as topiramate (Topamax®), oxazolidinedione derivatives such as trimethadione (Tridione®), and methanesulfonamides such as zonisamide (Zonigran®), Additional drugs such as Retigabine® (Valeant Pharmaceuticals), Lacosamide® (Schwarz Biosciences), and Perampanel® (Eisai) are in development as anti-epileptics and neuromodulators for other associated neurological, pain, and psychiatric conditions, and thus are further examples of potentially useful drugs in the present invention.

In yet other embodiments, the additional drug(s) is an analgesic/anti-inflammatory agent such as acetaminophen; prednisone, solumedrol, and other steroids; naproxen, aspirin, voltaren, ketoprofen, ibuprofen, nabumetone, and other NSAID's. The NSAID may be COX-1, COX-2 or mixed COX-1/COX-2 inhibitors. Examples of COX-2 inhibitors include oxicam, meloxicam, and the more selective celecoxib, rofecoxib, valdecoxib, parecoxib and etoricoxib. Further examples of corticosteroids include methylprednisolone, prednisolone, dexamethasone, and adreno-corticotrophic hormone (ACTH), corticotropin.

Additionally, the additional drug(s) may be an agent that treats neuropathic/neurogenic pain (pain that arises from nerve dysfunction and not as a result of injury, e.g., trigeminal neuralgia), such as carbamazepine, gabapentin, topiramate, zonisamide, phenytoin, desipramine, amitriptyline, imipramine, doxepin, protriptyline, pentoxifylline, and hydroxyzine, mixtures thereof, and the like.

In other embodiments, the additional drug(s) is 4-aminopyridine (4-AP; also known as Fampridine®) or a pharmaceutically acceptable derivative thereof. This drug has been shown to have the ability to improve the communication between damaged nerves, which may result in increased neurological function in the treatment of conditions such as multiple sclerosis (MS). An example of another such drug is 3.4 diaminopyridine.

In other embodiments, the additional drug(s) is useful for the treatment of Dementia/Alzheimer's disease, such as Aricept®/donepezil, Exelon®/rivastigmine. Reminyl®/Razadyne®/galantamine, and Namenda®/memantine, their naturally occurring counterparts, and mixtures thereof.

Formulations

All currently approved therapies for the conditions described above reach the central nervous system through the systemic circulation. Cerebral blood flow to brainstem structures is through the posterior circulation, via the vertebral and basilar arteries and their branches. In view of the undesirable side-effects associated with this form of drug delivery to the brain, it makes sense that targeted regional delivery to the brainstem is sought. Topical delivery of currently used drugs compounded in an appropriate “dermal penetration enhancer” and applied in cream/gel form or as a sustained-release patch at the posterior cervical region (back of the neck) at the hairline is such a method. Lipoderm® is an example of an effective commercially available compounding medium. However, one skilled in the art will recognize that topical carriers meeting the specific chemical requirements of an individual drug can be formulated for maximum efficiency in topical delivery.

The formulations of the present invention are prepared such that the drug(s) may be delivered acutely as single dose applications as cream/gel/ointment or as a sustained release topical patch, depending on the condition treated and associated symptom complex in the individual patient. The critical point, again, is in the location of the application: at the back of neck at the hair-line for access to posterior cervical afferents with free nerve endings under the surface of the skin. Through feedback connections with vagal and trigeminal afferent systems, this results in ultimate effect on brainstem structures.

By virtue of the method of treatment described herein, the disease state/condition to be treated may be treated much faster and more effectively than such prior art modes of administration.

In certain embodiments of the present invention, the method of treating a human patient comprises applying a topical formulation which comprises a drug suitable for topical administration, which is useful for the treatment of a disease state or condition treatable via the topical brainstem afferent stimulation (de-afferentation) drug therapy described herein.

The methods of the present invention may also, if desired, involve pre-treatment of the skin with an enhancer to increase the permeability of the skin to the applied drug. The methods of the present invention may include pre-treatment or “prepping” of the skin area with a substance that opens up the skin pores. Additionally, the methods of the present invention may include, if desired, pre-treatment or “prepping” of the skin with an alcohol swab or the like to rid the area of dirt, make-up, oil, and the like, prior to application of the drug.

In certain embodiments, the topical formulation of the present invention comprises a drug in an amount which is therapeutically effective when administered topically at the at the back of neck at the hair-line for access to posterior cervical afferents with free nerve endings under the surface of the skin, but which provides a plasma concentration which is sub-therapeutic if orally administered.

In certain embodiments, by applying the formulation of the present invention comprising a dose of drug at the back of neck at the hair-line for access to posterior cervical afferents with free nerve endings under the surface of the skin, it may be possible for the use of lower doses of drug or faster relief of the headache than if applied to the trunk or limbs of a human patient, and the lower plasma levels of drug which result from lower doses may thereby reduce unwanted side effects of the drug.

The topical formulations of the present invention (e.g., ointment, gel, cream, or the like), must be suitable for topical administration of a drug, i.e., must contain pharmaceutically acceptable excipients compatible with application to the skin tissue, and may optionally contain a sufficient amount of an enhancer composition as described hereinafter.

In certain embodiments, in addition to the drug (e.g., cannabinoid drug(s)), the topical formulations and/or transdermal therapeutic systems of the present invention may include at least one adjuvant such as a penetration enhancer, anti-oxidant, stabilizer, carrier, or vehicle. Additionally or alternatively, the present invention may include the application of electric current (iontophoresis) for enhancing permeation of the cannabinoid drug(s).

Suitable penetration enhancers useful in the formulations of the present invention include but are not limited to isostearic acid, octanoic acid, oleic acid, oleyl alcohol, lauryl alcohol, ethyl oleate, isopropyl myristate, butyl stearate, methyl laurate, diisopropyl adipate, glyceryl monolaurate, tetrahydrofurfuryl alcohol polyethylene glycol ether, polyethylene glycol, propylene glycol, 2-(2-ethoxyethoxy)ethanol, diethylene glycol monomethyl ether, diethylene glycol monoethyl ether, alkylaryl ethers of polyethylene oxide, polyethylene oxide monomethyl ethers, polyethylene oxide dimethyl ethers, dimethyl sulfoxide, glycerol, ethyl acetate, acetoacetic ester, N-alkylpyrrolidone, and terpenes.

In certain embodiments, the topical formulations comprising a drug in an ointment, gel, cream or the like, will typically contain on the order of about 0.001 to about 80% by weight, preferably 0.01 wt. % to 50 wt. % drug (i.e., cannabinoid drug(s) plus optional additional drugs as described herein), and about 0 wt. % to about 50.0 wt. %, preferably from about 1 wt. % to about 30 wt. % of a permeation enhancer composition, with the remainder of the composition comprising a carrier or vehicle. In certain preferred embodiments, the drug is included in a cream or gel or ointment in a concentration of, e.g., 1 mg drug/ml of carrier (e.g., Lipoderm). However, it is to be understood that one skilled in the art can increase the amount of carrier or change the carrier and maintain or improve efficacy of the topical formulation for TRNA therapy. In certain preferred embodiments, the drug is applied as a unit dose at the back of the neck or at the BONATH in immediate release form (e.g., cream, ointment or gel) for acute treatment with a cannabinoid drug as would be beneficial to a human patient. In such instances, it is preferred that the concentration of cannabinoid drug(s) included in the unit dose is from about 1 mg to about 100 mg, based on cannabidiol, or an therapeutically equivalent amount of another cannabinoid drug(s) as described herein. In certain preferred embodiments, a unit dose of cannabinoid (e.g., CBD) is from about 5 mg to about 50 mg or from about 7.5 mg to about 30 mg. This may be administered in a topical cream, ointment, gel or the like. For example, the topical formulation may be administered as a unit dose in an amount from about 0.5 g to about 1 g at a cannabinoid (e.g., CBD) concentration from about 0.1% to about 5% (or more).

In certain embodiments, the topical formulations comprising a cannabinoid drug(s) with or without additional drugs (collectively referred to herein as “drug(s)”) in an ointment, gel, cream or the like, will typically contain on the order of about 0.001 to about 80% by weight, preferably 0.01 wt. % to 50 wt. % drug(s) or from about 0.5% to about 5% drug(s); and about 0 wt. % to about 50.0 wt. %, preferably from about 1 wt. % to about 30 wt. % of a permeation enhancer composition, with the remainder of the composition comprising a carrier or vehicle. In certain preferred embodiments, the drug comprises CBD and is included in a cream or gel or ointment in a concentration of, e.g., 1 mg drug/ml of carrier (e.g., Lipoderm). However, it is to be understood that one skilled in the art can increase the amount of carrier or change the carrier and maintain or improve efficacy of the topical formulation for TRNA therapy.

Suitable (optional) permeation enhancers may also be included in the formulations. Such enhancers include, but are not limited to, dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO), N,N-dimethylacetamide (DMA), decylmethylsulfoxide (C10 MSO), polyethylene glycol monolaurate (PEGML), propylene glycol (PG), PGML, glycerol monolaurate (GML), lecithin, the 1-substituted azacycloheptan-2-ones, particularly 1-n-dodecylcyclazacycloheptan-2-one (available under the trademark Azone® from Whitby Research Incorporated, Richmond, Va.), alcohols, and the like. The permeation enhancer may also be a vegetable oil as described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,229,130 to Sharma. Such oils include, for example, safflower oil, cotton seed oil and corn oil.

Additional optional enhancers for use in conjunction with the present invention are lipophilic compounds having the formula [RCOO]n R′, wherein n is 1 or 2 and R is C1-C16 alkyl optionally substituted with 1 or 2 hydroxyl groups, and R′ is hydrogen or C1-C16 alkyl optionally substituted with 1 or 2 hydroxyl groups. Within this group, a first subset of compounds are represented by the formula [CH3 (CH 2)m COO]n R′ in which m is an integer in the range of 8 to 16, n is 1 or 2, and R′ is a lower alkyl (C1-C3) residue that is either unsubstituted or substituted with one or two hydroxyl groups. Preferred enhancers within this group include an ester which is a lower alkyl (C1-C3) laurate (i.e., m is 10 and n is 1) such as “PGML”. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the commercially available material sold as “PGML” is typically although not necessarily a mixture of propylene glycol monolaurate itself, propylene glycol dilaurate, and either propylene glycol, methyl laurate, or both. Thus, the terms “PGML” or “propylene glycol monolaurate” as used herein are intended to encompass both the pure compound as well as the mixture that is typically obtained commercially. Also within this group is a second subset of compounds, namely, esters of fatty alcohols represented by the formula CH3 (CH2)m-O—CO—CHR1 R2, in which R1 and R2 are independently hydrogen, hydroxyl, or lower alkyl (C1-C3), and m is as above. Particularly preferred enhancers within this group are lauryl lactate and myristyl lactate. In addition, a third subset of compounds within this group are analogous fatty acids. i.e., acids having the structural formula CH3 (CH2)m COOH where m is as above. A particularly preferred acid is lauric acid.

Other optional enhancer compositions are wherein a lipophilic compound as just described, particularly PGML is combined with a hydrophilic compound, such as a C2-C6 alkanediol. One preferred hydrophilic enhancer within this group is 1,3-butanediol. Such enhancer compositions are described in detail in PCT Publication No. WO 95/05137, published Feb. 23, 1995, herein incorporated by reference. Another hydrophilic enhancer that may be included in these compositions is an ether selected from the group consisting of diethylene glycol monoethyl ether (Transcutol) and diethylene glycol monomethyl ether. Such enhancer compositions are described in detail in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,053,227 and 5,059,426 to Chiang et al., the disclosures of which are herein incorporated by reference.

Other optional enhancer compositions may include mixture or combinations of any of the aforementioned enhancers, and the like.

One preferred topical formulation comprises the cannabinoid drug(s) in oil, together with a suitable amount of a penetration enhancer, dimethyl sulfoxide and a base. For example, such a formulation may include the CBD oil, and about 3 ml dimethyl sulfoxide in 30 g of base. The CBD can be incorporated at a concentration of, e.g., from about 0.5% to about 5% of the topical formulation in a preferred embodiment, and most preferably from about 1.5% to about 3% in a certain embodiment. The dose of such a formulation would be, e.g., from about 0.5 g to about 1 g applied topically on the back of the neck of the human patient.

U.S. Patent Publication No. 20080112895, hereby incorporated by reference, describes a room temperature stable aqueous cannabinoid formulation comprising an effective amount of a cannabinoid in a semi-aqueous solution buffered to a pH of about 5-1, the solution comprising water and an effective amount of an organic cosolvent to maintain the physical stability of the formulation, which may be incorporated into a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier.

In certain embodiments the topical formulation may include at least one water-insoluble, pharmacologically approved, alkyl cellulose or hydroxyalkyl cellulose, and the like. Alkyl cellulose or hydroxyalkyl cellulose polymers for use in this invention include ethyl cellulose, propyl cellulose, butyl cellulose, cellulose acetate, hydroxypropyl cellulose, hydroxybutyl cellulose, and ethylhydroxyethyl cellulose, alone or in combination. In addition, a plasticizer or a cross linking agent may be used to modify the polymer's characteristics. For example, esters such as dibutyl or diethyl phthalate, amides such as diethyldiphenyl urea, vegetable oils, fatty acids and alcohols such as acid oleic and myristyl may be used in combination with the cellulose derivative.

In certain embodiments, the topical formulation may further include hydrocarbons such as liquid paraffin, qualene, solid paraffin, microcrystalline wax, etc.; higher aliphatic alcohols such as cetyl alcohol, hexadecyl, alcohol, stearyl alcohol, oleyl alcohol, etc.; esters of higher fatty acids with higher alcohols such as beeswax, etc.; esters of higher fatty acids with lower alcohols such as isopropyl myristate, isopropyl palmitate, etc.; vegetable oils, modified vegetable oils, hydrous lanolin and its derivative, squalene, 43qualene; higher fatty acids such as palmitic acid, stearic acid, etc. and the like.

In certain embodiments, the topical formulation may further include emulsifiers and dispersing agents which include, for example, anionic, cationic and nonionic surfactants. Nonionic surfactants are preferred because of their low levels of irritation to skin. Typical of nonionic surfactants are fatty acid monoglycerides such as glyceryl monostearate, etc.; sorbitan fatty acid esters such as sorbitan monolaurate, etc.; sucrose fatty acid esters; polyoxyethylene fatty acid esters such as polyoxyethylene stearate, etc.; and polyoxyethylene higher alcohol ethers such as polyoxyethylene cetyl ether, polyoxyethylene oleyl ether, etc.

In certain preferred embodiments, the topical TRNA formulation is aqueous-based.

In certain embodiments of the present invention, the topical formulation may include a gelling agent such as methylcellulose, ethylcellulose, hydroxyethylcellulose, hydroxypropyl-cellulose, hydroxypropylmethylcellulose, carboxymethylcellulose, carbomer, and the like. Examples of pharmaceutical compositions which rely upon an aqueous gel composition as a vehicle for the application of a drug are U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,883,660; 4,767,619; 4,511,563; 4,861,760; and 5,318,780, the disclosures of which are herein incorporated by reference.

The topical formulation may further include one or more preservatives, stabilizers, or anti-oxidants.

Examples of preservatives that may be used in a formulation according to the present invention include, but are not limited to, bacteriostatic compounds and other preservatives suitable for topical administration including various alcohols, sorbic acid and salts and derivatives thereof, ethylenediamine, monothioglycerol, and thimerosal.

Examples of stabilizers that may be present in a formulation according to the present invention include pH buffers suitable for topical administration, complexing agents, chelating agents and the like.

Examples of anti-oxidants that may be used in a formulation according to the present invention include ascorbic acid and its derivatives, e.g., ascorbyl palmitate, as well as butylated hydroxyanisole, butylated hydroxytoluene, sodium bisulfite, sodium metabisulfite, and others.

Other adjuvants that may be included in the drug formulation include carriers, tackifiers, pigments, dyes, and other additives that do not adversely affect the mechanical or adhesive properties of the formulation.

“Carriers” or “vehicles” as used herein refer to carrier materials suitable for transdermal drug administration, and include any such materials known in the art, e.g., any liquid, gel, emulsion, solvent, liquid diluent, solubilizer, or the like, which is nontoxic and which does not interact with other components of the composition in a deleterious manner. The term “carrier” or “vehicle” as used herein may also refer to stabilizers, crystallization inhibitors, dispersing agents or other types of additives useful for facilitating transdermal drug delivery. It will be appreciated that compounds classified as “vehicles” or “carriers” may sometimes act as permeation enhancers, and vice versa, and, accordingly, these two classes of chemical compounds or compositions may sometimes overlap.

Carrier materials suitable for use in the instant compositions include those well-known for use in the cosmetic and medical arts as bases for ointments, lotions, salves, aerosols, suppositories and the like. Suitable carriers include, for example, water, liquid alcohols, liquid glycols, liquid polyalkylene glycols, liquid esters, liquid amides, liquid protein hydrolysates, liquid alkylated protein hydrolysates, liquid lanolin and lanolin derivatives, and like materials commonly employed in cosmetic and medicinal compositions. Other suitable carriers herein include for example alcohols, including both monohydric and polyhydric alcohols, e.g., ethanol, isopropanol, glycerol, sorbitol, 2-methoxyethanol, diethyleneglycol, ethylene glycol, hexyleneglycol, mannitol, and propylene glycol; ethers such as diethyl or dipropyl ether; polyethylene glycols and methoxypolyoxyethylenes (carbowaxes having molecular weight ranging from 200 to 20,000); polyoxyethylene glycerols, polyoxyethylene sorbitols, stearoyl diacetin, and the like. In certain preferred embodiments, the carrier is an aqueous based cannabidiol cream is produced using Lipoderm® as the carrier. Lipoderm®/LIP is a whitish cream with no smell, commercially marketed compounding agent (from PCCA, Pharmaceutical Compounding Centers of America) having the following ingredients: Ethoxydiglycol, Water (Aqua). Glycerin. C₁₂₋₁₅Alkyl Benzoate. Glyceryl Stearate. Dimethicone, Cetearyl Alcohol, Cetearyl Glucoside, Polyacrylamide, Cetyl Alcohol. Magnesium Aluminum Silicate, Xanthan Gum, Aloe Vera (Aloe Barbadensis), Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E Acetate), Prunus Amygadalus Amara (Bitter Almond) Kernel Oil. Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Extract, Triticum Vulgare (Wheat) Germ Oil, Retinyl Palmitate (Vitamin A Palmitate), Ascorbyl Palmitate (Vitamin C Palmitate). Pro-Lipo Multi-emulsion Liposomic System, Tetrasodium EDTA, Phenoxyethanol, and Sodium Hydroxymethylglycinate.

In certain embodiments of the invention, part or all of the dose of cannabinoid drug(s) may be encapsulated within liposomes. For example, U.S. Patent Publication No. 2015/0302148, hereby incorporated by reference, describes fast-acting liposomal and micelle formulations of cannabinoids which are prepared by (a) dissolving one or more cannabinoids or cannabinoid analogues in ethanol to obtain an ethanol cannabinoid solution; (b) adding a phospholipid to the ethanol cannabinoid solution to obtain an ethanol-phospholipid cannabinoid solution; (c) injecting the ethanol-phospholipid cannabinoid solution into distilled water to obtain a liposomal cannabinoid suspension; and (d) removing the ethanol from the liposomal cannabinoid suspension, thereby producing a stable liposomal suspension of one or more cannabinoids or cannabinoid analogue. In certain embodiments, the method further comprises the step of adding sodium alginate to the liposomal suspension of one or more cannabinoids or cannabinoid analogues to obtain an alginate liposomal cannabinoid suspension that has a final alginate concentration of 2% w/v, followed by the addition of calcium chloride to the alginate liposomal cannabinoid suspension to obtain a calcium alginate-encapsulated liposomal cannabinoid suspension. This suspension is then cold-pressed and air-dried to remove the water so as to obtain a dry cannabinoid powder. The dry cannabinoid powder can be re-suspended in citrate buffer to obtain an aqueous cannabinoid solution. The amount of cannabinoid or cannabinoid analogue in the aqueous cannabinoid solution is greater than 40%.

In certain preferred embodiments of the present invention where it is desired that the drug is administered chronically, the formulations of the present invention may be formulated as a transdermal delivery system (also referred to herein as a transdermal therapeutic system) such as a transdermal patch, a transdermal plaster, a transdermal disc, iontophoretic transdermal device, or the like. Such formulations are recognized by those skilled in the art as providing a release of drug and absorption into the skin of the patient in a sustained manner over an extended period of time (e.g., 1-7 days). In such embodiments of the present invention, the transdermal delivery system comprises, e.g., a cannabinoid drug(s) contained in a reservoir or a matrix, and an adhesive which allows the transdermal patch to adhere to the skin, allowing the passage of the active agent from the transdermal patch through the skin of the patient. In preferred embodiments, the transdermal patch is applied topically at the back of the neck so as to achieve topical regional neuro-affective therapy (“TRNA THERAPY”) as described herein. In embodiments in which the drug is contained in a transdermal patch, it is contemplated that the drug will be absorbed more slowly and the transdermal patch will provide a sustained release and prolonged therapeutic effect, as compared. e.g., to a cream or ointment intended to provide an immediate release of the drug and rapid onset of the TRNA therapy. In such embodiments, the dose of cannabinoid drug(s) may be that which is sufficient to provide a therapeutically effective dose to the back of the neck (e.g., non-systemic dose) over the course of e.g., from about 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 or 7 days. In certain embodiments, the dose of cannabinoid drug(s) contained in the transdermal delivery system is from about 0.5 mg to about 1000 mg. In certain preferred embodiments, the dose of the cannabinoid drug is from about 1 mg to about 100 mg. In certain preferred embodiments in which the cannabinoid drug is cannabidiol, the dosage is from about 8 mg to about 80 mg, and in certain preferred embodiments, about 40 mg. As there are only a finite number of receptors on the skin, once these receptors are bound, the rest of the active drug is contained in the (e.g., topical) preparation is superfluous. Therefore, there is no possibility of “over-dosing,” only of extra drug of potentially irritating the skin surface. Accordingly, in preferred embodiments, the methods and formulations of the present invention provide reduced side effects as compared to a systemic administration of the same drug.

In certain embodiments, the transdermal delivery devices, as well as other transdermal delivery systems in accordance with the invention can be made in the form of an article such as a tape, a patch, a sheet, a dressing or any other form known to those skilled in the art. Generally the device will be in the form of a patch of a size suitable to deliver a unit dose of serotonin agonist through the skin. The drug may be introduced into a transdermal therapeutic system in different forms (solid, in solution, in dispersion); it may also be microencapsulated.

In certain embodiments the present invention provides a transdermal therapeutic system comprising a cannabinoid drug(s) in an amount that would provide sub-therapeutic plasma levels if administered orally, but is therapeutically effective when administered via transdermal delivery at the back of the neck.

A transdermal delivery system for use in accordance with the present invention can also be constructed with an enhancer composition and other ingredients described hereinabove with respect to the topical formulation. Preferably, the transdermal delivery system is formulated for the prolonged delivery of the cannabinoid drug(s). The targeted skin flux for delivery of the cannabinoid drug(s) can be achieved by adjusting vehicle composition and vehicle loading, as well as by adjusting the surface area through which the compositions are administered to skin.

In certain preferred embodiments, the transdermal delivery system (e.g., patch) is formulated to deliver from about 1 mg to about 800 mg of the cannabinoid drug(s) per each 24 hours through the skin of the patient, based on cannabidiol (CBD), or a therapeutically equivalent amount of a suitable alternative cannabinoid(s) as described herein. In embodiments in which the transdermal delivery system is intended to be applied to the skin at the back of the neck for multiple days, the transdermal delivery system (e.g., patch) is formulated to provide a flux rate over the useful life of the system such that a similar amount (e.g., mean dose) is delivered on a daily basis until the system is removed and replaced with a fresh system.

The transdermal delivery system used in the present invention may be prepared, for example, in accordance with U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,069,909; 4,806,341; 5,026,556; 4,588,580; 5,016,652; 3,598,122; 4,144,317; 4,201,211; 4,262,003; and 4,379,454; all of which are incorporated herein by reference.

Additionally, the transdermal delivery system used in the present invention may be in accordance with U.S. Pat. No. 6,689,379, hereby incorporated by reference, which system is a matrix or reservoir system which comprises at least one pharmaceutical active agent and a pressure-sensitive adhesive comprising a polyacrylate polymer, wherein said polyacrylate polymer has a polyacrylate backbone containing monomer units selected from the group consisting of acrylic acid, methacrylic acid and ester derivatives of acrylic or methacrylic acid, and said monomer units comprise at least 50% (w/w) relative to a mean polymer mass of said polyacrylate polymer, a total amount of monomers selected from the group consisting of non-esterified acrylic acid and non-esterified methacrylic acid is 0.5 to 10.0% (w/w) relative to the mean polymer mass of said polyacrylate polymer, and the carboxyl groups of said non-esterified acrylic and methacrylic acid monomers are present stoichiometrically at 5 to 100% in the form of alkali salts or alkaline-earth salts, said salts being reaction products of a neutralization reaction of an alcoholic solution of an alkaline hydroxide or an alkaline-earth hydroxide with said acrylate polymer(s), or of a neutralization reaction of an alkali alcoholate or an alkaline-earth alcoholate with said acrylate polymer(s).

In certain embodiments, the dosage form can be a transdermal patch comprising a laminated composite for administering the drug (e.g., cannabinoid drug(s)) to an individual transdermally comprising: (a) a polymer backing layer that is substantially impermeable to the cannabinoid drug(s); and (b) a reservoir layer comprising a water-base acrylate pressure-sensitive adhesive, 1 to 12% by weight serotonin agonist and 2 to 25% by weight of a permeation enhancer comprising propylene glycol monolaurate in combination with capric acid or oleic acid, wherein the skin contact area of the composite is 10 to 100 cm2.

The dosage form can be a transdermal patch comprising (a) a polar solvent material selected from the group consisting of C3-C4 diols, C3-C6 triols, and mixtures thereof; and (b) a polar lipid material selected from the group consisting of fatty alcohol esters, fatty acid esters, and mixtures thereof; wherein said polar solvent material and said polar lipid material are present in a weight ratio of solvent material:lipid material of from about 60:40 to about 99:1.

In certain embodiments, the dosage form also comprises a transdermal plaster comprising: (1) a film layer which comprises a polyester film of 0.5 to 4.9 microns thickness, 8 to 85 g/mm strength, respectively in the two directions intersecting substantially at right angles, 30 to 150% elongation, in the two directions intersecting substantially at right angles and an elongation ratio of A to B of 1.0 to 5.0, wherein A and B represent data in two directions intersecting at right angles, and A is greater than B, and wherein said polyester film comprises 0.01 to 1.0% by weight, based on the total weight of said polyester film, of solid fine particles in which (a) the average particle size is 0.001 to 3.0 microns, and (b) the average particle size is substantially not more than 1.5 times the thickness of said polyester film; and (2) an adhesive layer (a) which is composed of an adhesive containing said serotonin agonist and further wherein said adhesive layer (a) is laminated on said film layer over the surface in a 2 to 60 microns thickness.

In certain embodiments, the dosage form can be a transdermal disc comprising: (a) a backing layer which is substantially impervious to the cannabinoid drug(s); and (b) a polymer matrix disc layer which is adhered to said backing layer and which has microdispersed therein said serotonin agonist, said polymer being bioacceptable and permitting said serotonin agonist to be transmitted for transdermal absorption, the cannabinoid drug(s) being stable in said polymer matrix.

In certain embodiments, the topical formulation or transdermal therapeutic system may further comprise another active ingredient in combination with the first drug (e.g., as previously described herein).

The present invention is contemplated to encompass all transdermal formulations, e.g., the technologies described above, with the inclusion of the cannabinoid drug(s), such that the administration of a drug useful for treatment of disease state or condition in humans via topical brainstem afferent stimulation (de-afferentation) therapy via topical administration. Therefore, modifications of the invention via. e.g., the choice and/or amount of drug are considered to be obvious variations of this disclosure and within the scope of the appended claims.

The present invention also contemplates the administration of the cannabinoid drug (s) directly below the skin to affect direct brainstem afferent stimulation to the free nerve endings under the epidermis. Such administration may be effected as an injection (e.g., subcutaneous injection) or implantation of the drug in immediate release or sustained release form. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that providing the drug in sustained release form and administering it in a suitable form below the skin may provide benefits, including less frequent administration (e.g., in chronic therapy).

In certain embodiments of the invention, the cannabinoid drug(s) can be formulated for controlled or sustained delivery at the back of the neck via incorporation into a biocompatible and implantable polymer which can be in the form of microparticles or an implantable insert, or a liquid that forms a gel or colloid or a semi-solid after injection (thereby encapsulating the drug and allowing it to be released in a prolonged and controlled manner at the desired site). For chronic conditions (e.g., Parkinson's) or desired prolonged effect, it is contemplated that a drug depot or reservoir may be created under the skin at the back of the neck, which then provides a sustained release of the drug in proximity to the desired nerve endings and which may be replenished or replaced at the end of the dosing interval. It is contemplated that such administrations of the drug may provide a prolonged therapeutic effect for at least about 3 days, preferably at least about 7 days, or longer. Such formulations may be administered in certain embodiments as, for example, a subcutaneous depot.

Implants are placed subcutaneously by making an incision in the skin and forcing the implants between the skin and the muscle. At the end of their use, if not dissolved, these implants are surgically removed. U.S. Pat. No. 4,244,949, hereby incorporated by reference, describes an implant which has an outer matrix of an inert plastic such as polytetrafluoroethylene resin. Examples of this type of implantable therapeutic system are Progestasert IUD and Ocusert system. It is contemplated that such systems can be appropriately modified by one skilled in the art for use in conjunction with the present invention. A commercially available product, Norplant®, which is an implant having a core containing levonorgestrel as the active substance, and where the core it surrounded by a membrane of a silicone elastomer of poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS). Another preparation of this kind is Jadelle®, in which the core is a poly(dimethylsiloxane) based matrix with levonorgestrel dispersed therein. The membrane is an elastomer made from PDMS and silica filler, which, besides giving necessary strength properties to the membrane, also retards the permeation of the active agent through the membrane. U.S. Pat. No. 3,854,480, hereby incorporated by reference, describes a drug delivery device. e.g. an implant, for releasing a drug at a controlled rate for a prolonged period of time. The device has a core of a matrix in which the drug is dispersed. The core is surrounded by a membrane that is insoluble in body fluids. The core matrix as well as the membrane are permeable to the drug by diffusion. The materials of the core and the membrane are chosen so that the drug diffuses through the membrane at a lesser rate than through the core matrix. Thus, the membrane controls the release rate of the drug. As a suitable polymer for the core matrix is mentioned poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS), and as suitable polymers for the membrane are mentioned polyethylene and a copolymer of ethylene and vinyl acetate (EVA). It is contemplated that the above systems may be adapted by one skilled in the art to deliver the cannabinoid drug(s) in accordance with the present invention.

One device which may be adapted by one skilled in the art for use in the present invention is described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,968,542 (Tipton), hereby incorporated by reference, which describes a high viscosity liquid controlled delivery system as a medical or surgical device is provided that includes: (i) a non-polymeric, non-water soluble liquid carrier material (HVLCM) of viscosity of at least 5,000 Cp at 37° C. that does not crystallize neat under ambient or physiological conditions; and, optionally, (ii) a substance to be delivered.

The pharmaceutical compositions suitable for injectable use in accordance with this invention include sterile aqueous solutions or dispersions and sterile powders or lyopholysates for the extemporaneous preparation of sterile injectable solutions or dispersions. The dosage forms must be sterile and it must be stable under the conditions of manufacture and storage. The carrier for injectable formulations is typically water but can also include ethanol, a polyol (for example, glycerol, propylene glycol and liquid polyethylene glycol), mixtures thereof, and vegetable oil.

Injectable formulations used in the present invention can also be formulated as injectable prolonged release formulations in which the active compound is combined with one or more natural or synthetic biodegradable or biodispersible polymers such as carbohydrates, including starches, gums and etherified or esterified cellulosic derivatives, polyethers, polyesters, polyvinyl alcohols, gelatins, or alginates. Such dosage formulations can be prepared for example in the form of microsphere suspensions, gels, or shaped polymer matrix implants that are well-known in the art for their function as “depot-type” drug delivery systems that provide prolonged release of the biologically active components. Such compositions can be prepared using art-recognized formulation techniques and designed for any of a wide variety of drug release profiles.

One example of a useful formulation which may be used in the methods of the present invention for providing a prolonged duration of action is described in U.S. Pat. No. 7,332,503 (Wikstrom, et al.), hereby incorporated by reference. Therein, apomorphine derivatives and the physiologically acceptable salts thereof as well as formulations thereof are described which provide a prolonged duration of action. The apomorphine pro-drugs can be suspended (as a neat oil or as crystals, or dissolved in a suitable and pharmaceutically acceptable solvent (e.g. water, ethanol, DMSO, i-PrOH or benzylbenzoate)) in a pharmaceutically acceptable depot oil (e.g. viscoleo, sesame oil or olive oil) and injected subcutaneously or intramuscularly with a syringe or a “pen injector”. Alternatively, these drugs may, in a suitable composition and with a suitable vehicle (penetration enhancer), be applied to a patch for transdermal administration. The composition could include also a local anesthetic (e.g. lidocaine) to avoid injection pain, in particular at intramuscular injections. In one embodiment, the composition is in the form of a patch or an ointment for transdermal administration. The patch or ointment preferably also comprises stabilizers, solubilizers and permeation activators to facilitate the passage of the active principle through the skin. In another preferred embodiment, the composition is in the form of a depot preparation for subcutaneous or intramuscular administration comprising the cannabinoid drug(s) dissolved or suspended in an oil. In certain embodiments, in addition to the apomorphine derivative, the formulation further contains a local anesthetic. The formulations described in the '503 patent can be modified as understood by one skilled in the art to contain other active drugs as described herein for use at the back of the neck, e.g., BONATH.

An injectable depot formulation is a dosage form, which is generally intended to have a therapeutic activity for 2 to 4 weeks after administration (e.g. in sesame oil). In order to maintain effective drug plasma levels the dosage form should release the drug at a more or less constant rate during the desired dosing interval. The difference between such prior art depots and depots used in the present invention is that the in accordance with the present invention, the drug is not needed to be absorbed into the systemic circulation.

A suitable form of depot preparation is the subcutaneous or intramuscular administration of an oil solution and/or oil suspension of a lipophilic drug. This gives a slow transport over the oil-biofluid interface and a slow dissolution in the biophase. Thus, when the drug is dissolved in a polar solvent (e.g. oils), which is non-miscible with the aqueous biological fluids, the drug has to be transported over the oil/water interface. When the oil/water partition coefficient is high, the transport will be slow. For very lipophilic drugs, the release from the oil phase may last for up to several weeks. The use of depot preparations such as those described herein may be used to deliver the drugs described herein at the back of the neck, e.g., BONATH.

The maximum volume of an oil solution/suspension to be injected intramuscularly or subcutaneously is 2-4 Ml. This is feasible for the preparations of the cannabinoid drug formulations of the present invention. For example, the cannabinoid drug(s) may be dissolved or dispersed in 1 Ml of an oil (sesame oil, Viscoleo or another approved oil) and the mixture gently heated (max 50° C.) shaken in a test tube shaker and ultrasonicated for a short time (minutes) until the mixture becomes a homogeneous solution or suspension. If necessary, the cannabinoid drug(s) may first be dissolved in 50-300 μl DMSO, water, t-BuOH, PEG, benzylbenzoate, or another suitable and approved solvent or mixtures thereof, before adding the oil to a total volume of 1 Ml.

Another example of a polymeric drug delivery system which may be adapted for use in the present invention by one skilled in the art is described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,601,835 (Sabel, et al.), hereby incorporated by reference, which describes a polymeric drug delivery system for delivery of any substance to the central nervous system. The delivery system is preferably implanted in the central nervous system for delivery of the drug directly to the central nervous system. These implantable devices can be used, for example, to achieve continuous delivery of dopamine, which cannot pass the blood brain barrier, directly into the brain for an extended time period. The implantable devices display controlled. “zero-order” release kinetics, a life time of a minimum of several weeks or months even when the devices contain water soluble, low molecular weight compounds, biocompatibility, and relative non-invasiveness. The polymeric devices are said to be applicable in the treatment of a variety of central nervous system disorders including Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's dementia, Huntington's disease, epilepsy, trauma, stroke, depression and other types of neurological and psychiatric illnesses, and one skilled in the art can adapt that drug delivery system for delivering the drugs contemplated herein at the back of the neck, e.g., BONATH.

Yet another example of a system that may be adapted for use in the present invention is described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,601,835 (Sabel, et al.), hereby incorporated by reference, wherein an active compound is encapsulated within a polymer to form a polymeric device, the device formed of a biocompatible polymer that is plastically deformable selected from the group consisting of ethylene vinyl acetate, polyurethanes, polystyrenes, polyamide, polyacrylamide, and combinations thereof having a non-porous polymer coating thereon with one or more openings, with limited water sorptivity and slight permeability to the passage of small, aqueous-soluble molecules, wherein said compound is linearly released (e.g., zero order release) from said polymeric device over a sustained period of time of at least 65 days at a predetermined level and rate when implanted in a patient at a specific site within the central nervous system where the compound is released directly into the central nervous system and the device remains essentially intact throughout the release period. The delivery device is a two-phase system that is manufactured using standard techniques such as blending, mixing or the equivalent thereof, following selection of the biologically active material to be delivered and an appropriate polymer for formation of the matrix. The general method of solvent casting as disclosed by Siegel and Langer, “Controlled release of polypeptides and other macromolecules”, Pharmaceutical Research 1, 2-10 (1984), is modified so that drug is dispersed within the devices to create channels and pores to the surface for release of the drug at the desired rate. Where appropriate, a coating impermeable to the drug is placed over a portion of the drug containing polymer matrix to further regulate the rate of release. One skilled in the art can adapt that drug delivery system for delivering the drugs contemplated herein at the back of the neck, e.g., BONATH.

Yet another formulation which may used to deliver the drug as set forth in the present invention at the back of the neck, e.g., BONATH, is described in U.S. Pat. No. 7,314,636 (Caseres et al.), hereby incorporated by reference, which describes injectable implants comprising glycolic acid and bio-compatible/bio-absorbable polymeric particles containing a polymer of lactic acid. The particles are small enough to be injected through a needle but large enough to avoid engulfment by macrophages. The injectables of this invention may be in a pre-activated solid form or an activated form (e.g., injectable suspension or emulsion).

It is further contemplated that the system described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,586,006 (Roser, et al.), hereby incorporated by reference, can be adapted by one skilled in the art for use in the present invention for delivery of drugs at the back of the neck, e.g., BONATH. Therein are described delivery systems suitable for delivery of bioactive materials to subcutaneous and intradermal, intramuscular, intravenous tissue, the delivery system being sized and shaped for penetrating the epidermis. The delivery systems comprise a vitreous vehicle loaded with the guest substance and capable of releasing the guest substance in situ at various controlled rates. Subdermal implantable therapeutic systems have also been formulated for slow release of certain pharmaceutical agents for extended periods of time such as months or years. A well-known example is Norplant® for delivery of steroid hormones.

In membrane permeation-type controlled drug delivery, the drug is encapsulated within a compartment that is enclosed by a rate-limiting polymeric membrane. The drug reservoir may contain either drug particles or a dispersion (or solution) of solid drug in a liquid or a matrix type dispersing medium. The polymeric membrane may be fabricated from a homogeneous or a heterogeneous nonporous polymeric material or a microporous or semipermeable membrane. The encapsulation of the drug reservoir inside the polymeric membrane may be accomplished by molding, encapsulation, microencapsulation, or other techniques. The implants release drugs by dissolution of the drug in the inner core and slow diffusion across the outer matrix. The drug release from this type of implantable therapeutic system should be relatively constant and is largely dependent on the dissolution rate of the drug in the polymeric membrane or the diffusion rate across or a microporous or semipermeable membrane. The inner core may substantially dissolve over time; however, in devices currently in use, the outer matrix does not dissolve.

Other implantable therapeutic systems involve matrix diffusion-type controlled drug delivery. The drug reservoir is formed by the homogeneous dispersion of drug particles throughout a lipophilic or hydrophilic polymer matrix. The dispersion of drug particles in the polymer matrix may be accomplished by blending the drug with a viscous liquid polymer or a semisolid polymer at room temperature, followed by cross-linking of the polymer, or by mixing the drug particles with a melted polymer at an elevated temperature. It can also be fabricated by dissolving the drug particles and/or the polymer in an organic solvent followed by mixing and evaporation of the solvent in a mold at an elevated temperature or under vacuum. The rate of drug release from this type of delivery device is not constant. Examples of this type of implantable therapeutic system are the contraceptive vaginal ring and Compudose implant. PCT/GB 90/00497 describes slow release glassy systems for formation of implantable devices. The described implants are bioabsorbable and need not be surgically removed. One skilled in the art can adapt these drug delivery systems for delivering the drugs contemplated herein at the back of the neck. e.g., BONATH.

In microreservoir dissolution-controlled drug delivery, the drug reservoir, which is a suspension of drug particles in an aqueous solution of a water-miscible polymer, forms a homogeneous dispersion of a multitude of discrete, unleachable, microscopic drug reservoirs in a polymer matrix. The microdispersion may be generated by using a high-energy-dispersing technique. Release of the drug from this type of drug delivery device follows either an interfacial partition or a matrix diffusion-controlled process. An example of this type of drug delivery device is the Syncro-Mate-C Implant.

Yet another formulation which may be adapted by one skilled in the art for use in the present invention is described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,576,263 (Truong, et al.), hereby incorporated by reference, which describes a preformed object for delivering an active agent for a subject, the preformed object including cross-linked protein, and methods of making and using.

Yet another formulation which may be adapted by one skilled in the art for use in the present invention is described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,287,588 (Shih, et al.), hereby incorporated by reference, which describes a composition and method for releasing a bio-active agent or a drug within a biological environment in a controlled manner. The composition is a dual phase polymeric agent-delivery composition comprising a continuous biocompatible gel phase, a discontinuous particulate phase comprising defined microparticles and an agent to be delivered. A microparticle containing a bio-active agent is releasably entrained within a biocompatible polymeric gel matrix. The bio-active agent release may be contained in the microparticle phase alone or in both the microparticles and the gel matrix. The release of the agent is prolonged over a period of time, and the delivery may be modulated and/or controlled. In addition, a second agent may be loaded in some of the microparticles and/or the gel matrix.

Yet another formulation which may be adapted by one skilled in the art for use in the present invention is described in U.S. Pat. No. 7,364,568 (Angel, et al.), hereby incorporated by reference, which describes a transdermal transport device includes a reservoir for holding a formulation of an active principle, and a needle with a bore extending along the length of the needle from a first end of the needle to a second end of the needle. The second end is substantially aligned to a plane parallel to a body surface of a biological body when the device is placed on the body surface. The device also includes an actuator which pumps the formulation through the bore of the needle between a target area of the body and the reservoir.

In yet other embodiments of the invention, the cannabinoid drug(s) is infused into the patient at the back of the neck using technology known to be useful for infusing other drugs, such as an insulin pump. One such system, U.S. Pat. No. 7,354,420 (Steil, et al.), hereby incorporated by reference, describes a closed loop infusion system controls the rate that fluid is infused into the body of a user. The closed loop infusion system includes a sensor system, a controller, and a delivery system. The sensor system includes a sensor for monitoring a condition of the user. The sensor produces a sensor signal, which is representative of the condition of the user. The sensor signal is used to generate a controller input. The controller uses the controller input to generate commands to operate the delivery system. The delivery system infuses a liquid into the user at a rate dictated by the commands from the controller. Preferably, the sensor system monitors the glucose concentration in the body of the user, and the liquid infused by the delivery system into the body of the user includes insulin.

The present invention is contemplated to encompass all implantable or injectable formulations, e.g., the technologies described above, with the inclusion of a drug(s) (e.g., cannabinoid drug(s)(s)), such that the administration of a drug useful for treatment of disease state or condition in humans via topical brainstem afferent stimulation (de-afferentation) therapy. Therefore, modifications of the invention via, e.g., the choice and/or amount of drug are considered to be obvious variations of this disclosure and within the scope of the appended claims.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

The present invention will now be more fully described with reference to the accompanying examples. It should be understood, however, that the following description is illustrative only and should not be taken in any way as a restriction on the generality of the invention specified above.

Example 1 Topical Formulation

An aqueous based cannabidiol cream is produced using Lipoderm® as the carrier. Lipoderm®/LIP is a commercially marketed compounding agent (from PCCA, Pharmaceutical Compounding Centers of America) having the following ingredients: Ethoxydiglycol, Water (Aqua), Glycerin, C₁₂₋₁₅Alkyl Benzoate, Glyceryl Stearate. Dimethicone, Cetearyl Alcohol, Cetearyl Glucoside, Polyacrylamide, Cetyl Alcohol, Magnesium Aluminum Silicate, Xanthan Gum, Aloe Vera (Aloe Barbadensis), Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E Acetate), Prunus Amygadalus Amara (Bitter Almond) Kernel Oil, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Extract, Triticum Vulgare (Wheat) Germ Oil, Retinyl Palmitate (Vitamin A Palmitate), Ascorbyl Palmitate (Vitamin C Palmitate), Pro-Lipo Multi-emulsion Liposomic System, Tetrasodium EDTA, Phenoxyethanol, and Sodium Hydroxymethylglycinate. The concentration is 4 mg of CBD in 1 ml of Lipoderm. Lipoderm is a whitish cream with no smell. The cannabinoid drug(s) are incorporated into the Lipoderm cream in the form of a CBD oil product as described herein.

Example 2

A 60 g topical formulation of CBD is prepared by incorporating 2.2 g CBD (CBD-RSHO-Clear 43.5%), 20 g Pluronic 20%, 40 g Carbomer hydroalcoholic gel and 1 ml ethyl alcohol to obtain a CBD topical formulation having a 1.6% concentration of CBD.

Example 3—Oil-Based CBD

A 30 g topical formulation of CBD is prepared by incorporating CBD oil, Dimethyl sulfoxide 3 ml and enough base for total quantity of 30 grams. The CBD is incorporated in a concentration sufficient to yield an end product having a CBD concentration of 0.75%, 1%, 1.5%, 2% and 3%. The topical formulation is in the form of a cream. The oil-based CBD includes CBD oil commercially available from CannaVest. A unit dose of the topical CBD cream is from about 0.5 to about 1 g, with respect to formulations having a CBD concentration from 1.5%-3%. After initial application, the topical CBD formulation can be applied to the back of the neck of the human patient once a day, twice a day, three times a day, or four times a day depending on the condition to be treated and its severity.

Example 4—CBD Crystalline Powder

A 60 g topical formulation of CBD is prepared utilizing CBD crystalline powder (95%+ pure CBD). The CBD is incorporated into the topical formulation of Example 2 having a CBD concentration between 0.75% to about 10% CBD.

Example 5

The following patients were treated with a topical cannabidiol (CBD) formulation administered on the back of the neck on human patients at a 40 mg dose, as more specifically described below in Table 1:

TABLE 1 1. 33 y/o Haitian male with Seizures, impulsive behavior, 10 minutes after topical CBD, neonatal brain damage, agitation, concentration and settled down playing games on chronic encephalopathy and attentional problems. On Trileptal, the phone and did not require seizures. Seroquel, Klonopin, Diamax, and usual meds without which he was Trazodone. Came in agitated and usually intolerable. With hyperactive as he had not had continued use, mother states less afternoon meds. agitated, more compliant, and sleeping better - all issues in the past. 2. 74 y/o female in Nursing Sitting in wheelchair with eyes 10-15 minutes after nuchal topical Home with severe brain open with blank stare, CBD, she “woke up” in front of damage from multiple unresponsive, not following RN daughter who called it “a strokes. commands or verbalizing, neglect miracle” smiling, responding of left hemibody and not moving verbally, following simple it. On Namenda, Depakote, and commands using both sides of her Trazodone. body. 3. 75 y/o female s/p head Slowed cognition, inattentive, flat More spontaneous and animated, injury from fall in bathroom affect with speech hesitancy. conversant, near back to 2 months prior. premorbid feisty personality. 4. 89 y/o female s/p hit by Confusion, decreased memory, More alert and less “fogginess” in car with head injury. feeling “foggy” in thoughts, thinking, speech spontaneous. insomnia with visual hallucinations; mumbling speech. 5. 66 y/o physician with s/p 4 cardiac surgeries under “felt more alert” more daytime hyper somnolence general anesthesia within short spontaneous and conversant and cognitive slowing. period of time with “perfusion within 15 minutes. pump syndrome” and hypoxic encephalopathy. 6. 58 y/o male successful Cognitive impairment documented Significant improved alertness, financial advisor and stock by formal neuropsychological more conversational, improved broker with closed head testing and deemed disabled, memory also noted by wife who injury from auto accident. unable to return to work. On is a pharmacist “back to prior disability with persistent seizures, personality”. Will begin process lethargy, cognitive slowing, on of reducing medications. Vyvanse, Gabapentin, Vimpat, Abilify, and tramadol. 7. 66 y/o male Parkinson's On apomorphine, selegiline, With one dose of 40 mg topical diseases x 4 years with on- Comtan, Neupro patch and CBD, no episodes of freezing for off phenomena and freezing tizanidine and experiencing 10-12 over 24 hours; also more episodes. freezing episodes per day. spontaneous and with improved speech. Now on CBD 2x/day. 8. 68 y/o male s/p 2 strokes First right brain stroke 18 months 40 mg topical CBD resulted in with left hand weakness and ago with recovery. Second stroke significant improvement in left incoordination. 6 weeks ago with significant hand function within 15 minutes; impairment of the left upper patient also more alert and extremity. conversant. Had been complaining of lethargy when he came in, which resolved. 9. 48 y/o female with neck Exam showed decreased range of After 40 mg topical CBD, pain and right upper motion of neck to right with improved neck range of extremity numbness and moderate weakness of the right movement and right upper weakness for a week after upper extremity. Pain level was 7 extremity strength. Pain level heaving exercise. of 10. dropped to 2 of 10. Prior insomnia improved. 10. 55 y/o female s/p Uncontrollable central 20 minutes after 40 mg topical intracranial aneurysm hypertension despite numerous CBD, NP dropped from 220/110 rupture. medications with headaches and to 180/100. Patient could tell central pain syndrome. difference. 11. 14 y/o male inattention, Neonatal birth trauma with ICU 5 minutes after 40 mg topical focusing problems, stay for week, head injury at age 5. CBD, remarkable change noted agitation, oppositional Recent EEG showed cortical by father and teenage sister: calm, defiant behavior. irritability and potential for focused, not usual fidget seizures. behavior, and with eye contact. Patient recognized himself “more calm.” 12. 58 y/o male bi-polar; On Depakote, trazodone, Vilibryd, 40 mg topical CBD resulted in cognitive problems, memory and Wellbutrin with abnormal improved clarity of thoughts, lapse, poor concentration, EEG suggesting cortical irritability better focus, and patient was and impulsivity. and seizures. brighter and more spontaneous. 13. 92 y/o female with Patient takes Ativan/Lorazepam Nuchal topical CBD 40 mg anxiety disorder and panic when she has panic attacks. She aborted panic attack and reduced attacks. was in midst of an attack when anxiety from 7-8 of 10 to 4 of 10 seen. in 5 minutes. The relief persisted. Patient liked it better than lorazepam. 14. 76 y/o female with Patient had MRI today with Xanax After 40 mg topical CBD, patient dementia since 2008. as pre-op for agitation. She was awoke and conversed with slumped over unresponsive as daughter-in-law. Dementia result. persisted but alerted from prior state. 15. 84 y/o female with MRI brain with numerous infarcts, Improved focus, attention and multiple strokes and EEG with disorganized memory. More responsive and memory problems, background. Patient disoriented spontaneous. Prior leg pains and attentional issues. with poor memory. itching resolved as did automatisms of picking her fingers. 16. 53 y/o female with Undergoing work-up for seizures After 40 mg topical CBD, more confusion, unsteadiness, and Exam remarkable for unsteady gait calm and able to walk tandem, heaches. with inability to tandem, walk even with heels. Unable before heel-to-toe without falling to the with bare feet. right. Also anxious and jittery. 17. 66 y/o female with MRI brain with atrophy.. EEG BP 145/80. After 40 mg topical memory problems and high with disorganized background and CBD, 130/60. BP. frontal sharps. 18. 71 y/o female s/p stroke Spastic left hemiparesis with upper 10-15 minutes after topical CBD, from AVM rupture 2 years extremity more affected. significant improvement In left ago. hand function: increased strength and improved fine motor movements. 19. 55 y/o female s/p viral Anxious with burning neuropathic Reduced anxiety and less burning meningitis and craniotomy pain of tongue and spasms of the pain and spasm of jaw. with seizures, neuropathic jaw/dystonia. pain, and anxiety. 20. 72 y/o female with 12 Fatigued, anxious, and with More alert and spontaneous with yr. Parkinson's disease with choreiform dyskinesias. marked reduction in dyskinesias. multiple meds: Sinemet, Requip, Klonopin. 21. 27 y/o female s/p auto Dizzy, tired, with neck spasm and Improved range of neck, more accident with certical sprain pain; visual convergence alert, and improve visual and eye convergence difficulties. convergence. problems. 22. 53 y/o female with MS Left spastic hemiparesis with Significant improvement in left since 2002 on Copaxone, difficulty using hand and gait hemibody spasticity with better baclofen, recent steroids. problems. fine motor movements of hand and improved spastic gait in 10 minutes after topical CBD. 23. 48 y/o female with Treatment with Vyvanse 40 mg topical CBD had profound ADHD and anxiety. discontinued secondary to effect on both anxiety and ADHD palpitations; Strattera did not symptoms. work. Now with moderate anxiety and focusing problems. Smoking marijuana daily for anxiety. 24. 61 y/o female with On Namenda, Abilify, Paxil, Dramatic improvement in affect dementia. Parkinson's apomorphine. with increased spontaneity, disease, paranoia, lethargy. improved gait and general mobility. No change in memory but more responsive. 25. 80 y/o male with On Lamictal, Risperdal, and More calm, less agitated, and dementia, impulsive Seroquel with agitation and improved thought process and behavior, agitation, anxiety. pressured speech, inappropriate speech. comments. 26. 61 y/o female with Marked contracturing of right arm Visibly improved right upper cerebral palsy, seizures, and and hand with spastic scissoring extremity function and gait. Also spastic right hemiparesis. gait. On Depakote, Tegretol, noted by her long term caretaker. Valium, Rozerem, Remeron, and imipramine. 27. 72 y/o female with Disoriented, lethargic, with speech More alert, responsive and dementia, PD, hesitancy, and cognitive conversant. Tremors and gait hallucinations. dysfunction. Tremors of head and improved. hands. Rigid unstable gait. 28. 59 y/o female chronic Lethargic and mumbling speech More alert, and responsive with encephalopathy and on Keppra, Lyrica, Mysoline, improved speech. seizures. Zonisamide. 29. 73 y/o female s/p Experiencing headache and neck Pain went to 3 of 10 in 15 accident with cervical disc pain, 8 of 10. minutes after topical CBD. herniation, headaches, seizures. 30. 80 y/o male with PD 5 On Sinemet, Azilect with anxiety After topical CBD, improved yrs. and tremors of mouth/chin and tremors and anxiety. hands. 31. 61 y/o female with MS Foggy, floating feelings with More clear and improved thought since 1999 on Tysabri. detachment from environment, “as process. when she smoked marijuana in the remote past.” 32. 40 y/o female with Infantile affect and thought Visibly improved gait with arm cerebral palsy, chronic processes with severe spastic swing, more communicative. encephalopathy, seizures, scissoring gait with no arm swing. and retardation.

Example 6

The efficacy of a topical cannabidiol formulation was studied in a human patient (53 year old female s/p resection right clival meningioma) suffering from episodic severe post-operative neuralgic head pain suffering from severe right-sided neuralgic head pain every 15-20 seconds. The patient was treated with cannabidiol 40 mg applied to the BONATH in a topical formulation. There was attenuation of associated focal EEG abnormalities. The EEG prior to treatment showed a right temporal issue (disorganized slow sharp waves). After NUCHAL administration, her EEG showed attenuation of the right temporal waves to a more normal state. The neuralgic head pain was less severe by about 50% (frequency decreased to every 2-5 minutes). The EEG improvement lasted several minutes, but the clinical benefit lasted several hours.

Example 7

The efficacy of a topical cannabidiol formulation was studied in a human patient having a remote head injury, s/p 4 craniotomies and intractable seizures. The patient was treated with cannabidiol 40 mg applied to the BONATH in a topical formulation. There was attenuation of associated focal EEG abnormalities. The EEG prior to treatment showed a right fronto-central excessive beta and sharp waves. Post-treatment, the right fast activity and sharp waves were attenuated. The right abnormalities on the EEG were further attenuated after further topical nucal treatment with 25 mg milnacipran.

Example 8

In Example 8, 34 patients having seizures, encephalopathy, and/or spasticity were treated with topical CBD at the back of the neck. The treatment comprised a dose of either 15 mg or 30 mg cannabinoid drugs, with the majority being CBD, the source of the CBD being CBD oil commercially available from CannaVest. Table 2 below provides treatment information and results.

TABLE 2 1. 9 y/o female with cerebral palsy, After one application of CBD, spasticity seizures, and chronic encephalopathy. decreased by 80% within 15 minutes. Now on chronic use. 2. 73 y/o female with hydrocephalus, After application of CBD, improved gait with gait disorder, and anxiety; s/p VP shunt increased confidence and less anxiety. 3. 21 y/o male with autism/Aspergers. After CBD, resolution of racing thoughts, less Poor impulse control, racing thoughts, anxious and with improved impulsivity. and anxiety. Arrested for discharging gun in a pharmacy trying to refill Xanax Rx. 4. 37 y/o male with mood disorder, impulse After CBD application, patient felt more and attentional issues, and memory focused, more relaxed and less agitated with problems. On Lamictal and Brintellix with reduced neck tension: felt he was in “slow some control of behavior. motion” and not in usual activated state. 5. 15 y/o male with autism; and poor After treatment with CBD, noticeably calmer, impulse control, agitation, and outbursts. less reactive and impulsive. On Lamictal and hydroxyzine. 6. 76 y/o female with MS, trigeminal Improved thought processes and mental neuralgia, encephalopathy, and confusion. state within 10 minutes. 7. 8 y/o female with complex partial More focused and calmer after CBD. Prior seizures, attention deficit disorder. abnormal EEG improved. Lamictal discontinued as response to CBD was superior; now on daily use CBD. 8. 7 y/o male with absence/petit mal On chronic use of topical CBD 2x/day with seizures with episodes of detachment, drop resolution of seizure episodes. attacks and falls, MRI brain shows a thalamic hamartoma. 9. 6 y/o male with petit mal epilepsy Rx'd Initially started on topical CBD 2x/day, now Ethosuximide/Zarontin with inattention once daily with improved attention and and poor school performance, bed-wetting. focus with objective improved school work noted by teachers (did not know he was on CBD). Resolved enuresis. Never took Zarontin. 10. 72 y/o female with strokes from anti- After CBD, improved thought processes, less phospholipid syndrome, concussion, anxious and with improved sense of well-being. encephalopathy, and anxiety. 11. 61 y/o female with MS, seizures, After CBD application, patient felt more in unsteadiness and gait problems with fails. control of her body with improved gait and Depression from disabilities. thought processes. She felt more positive and hopeful for first time. 12. 21 y/o female with Aicardi syndrome, After treatment with CBD, noticeably more intractable seizures, agitation, and lack of spontaneous, interactive, and talkative. social interaction. After 2 months use, seizure frequency reduced 60%. Prior doses of Lamicatal and Depakote reduced. 13. 21 y/o female with cerebral palsy, Improved interaction with others, less mental retardation and chronic agitation, and decreased anxiety. Currently encephalopathy with anxiety and social using CBD 2x/day. isolation. 14. 61 y/o male with chronic Topical CBD made patient more coherent encephalopathy from pesticide poisoning, and appropriate, with reduced anxiety and adrenal insufficiency, and seizures with agitation. agitation. 15. 61 y/o female s/p intracranial aneurysm On chronic use of topical CBD, more focused, rupture with chronic encephalopathy and resolved dizziness and chronic headaches. headaches. 16. 54 y/o female with severe MS with Severe baseline spasticity improved 70% quadriparesis and spasticity all 4 after one treatment with topical CBD to back extremities; on Baclofen, Klonopin, and of neck, Now continuing daily therapy. narcotics for pain. 17. 72 y/o female with MS and cervical After CBD, improved walking, lifting feet, myelopathy with gait disturbance. and standing more erect. Also with improved mood and significantly more talkative. 18. 21 y/o male with autism/Asperger's After CBD application, became relaxed in a with poor impulse control, inattention, and better mood, and less impulsive. mood disorder. 19. 74 y/o cervical injury with paralysis and After one treatment with CBD, reduction in spasticity all extremities, lower worse. On spasticity by 30% from baseline. high doses of Baclofen, Tizanidine, and Dantrolene for spastic contracturing pain. 20. 18 y/o with anxiety precipitated 3 minutes after topical CBD application, complex partial seizures on Tegretol. anxiety reduced over 30%. Will be using daily with plans to reduce Tegretol dose. 21. 79 y/o female with neck pain, PTSD, and PTSD symptoms improved after CBD use anxiety. 2x/day; neck pain and headaches reduced 80%. 22. 36 y/o female s/p auto accident with On topical CBD 2x/day without further head injury and seizures. Persistent complex seizures and tapering off Topamax. partial seizures 3x/day with headaches, on Headaches also relieved. Topamax. 23. 53 y/o female with MS of 10 years with 30% reduction in spasticity in all 4 severe spasticity and gait problems extremities after CBD application to back of neck. Will be using topical CBD 2x/day. 24. 79 y/o female with 9 months of post-op After single dose of topical CBD to back of encephalopathy with amnestic dementia, neck, became alert, more sociable and inattention, social withdrawal. Intolerant of interactive, and increased awareness. Will Namenda for memory due to agitation. use CBD 2x/day. 25. 37 y/o male with cerebral palsy, After a dose of topical CBD to back of neck, lethargy, decreased interaction and became more alert, less spastic, and responsiveness. interactive, with increased mobility. Will use CBD 2x/day. 26. 77 y/o male s/p head injury and 30 minutes after topical CBD to back of neck, intracranial hemorrhage with dizziness, patient noted “clear vision, improved unsteadiness, and “foggy” thinking. dizziness, and better able to walk” which lasted 8 hours. Now on 3x/day. 27. 87 y/o female with spasticity, peripheral Patient was more alert and responsive after neuropathy, myoclonus, and restless legs topical CBD with gait disorder. treatment and walked better. Prescribed 2x/day. 28. 60 y/o male s/p auto accident with head One dose of topical CBD relieved anxiety and injury and seizures, ADHD, neck pain for focus problems 80% and also relieved neck surgery, bi-polar disorder came in with pain ~50%. Patient will use CBD 2x/day in severe anxiety after traumatic deposition addition to the Namenda, Vyvanse, Vimpat, with attorneys. and Abilify. 29. 66 y/o female with MS and gait After one dose of topical CBD to the neck, disturbance on Baclofen and patient's stride improved; faster and more Mirapex. Symptoms began in 20's. smooth without prior hesitancy, shuffling and stiff leg character. 30. 78 y/o female with extensive strokes of 15 minutes after application of topical CBD the cerebral hemispheres and brainstem to the neck, gait visibly improved: less wide- with 3 years of gait problems, now requiring based, picking up her feet, and more smooth. a walker. Improvement noted by patient and several other observers. 31. 79 y/o female with MS, peripheral After one dose of topical CBD to the neck, neuropathy and gait disorder. patient's gait became more brisk and smooth, with less hesitancy on turns. 32. 47 y/o male s/p closed head injury with After a dose of topical CBD to the back of the seizures, concentration problems, and neck, became more relaxed and able to focus anxiety. better. Neck tension also resolved. 33. 56 y/o male s/p head injury with post- 10 minutes after topical CBD to back of neck, concussive syndrome and PTSD: agitation more calm and focused and at ease for the and poor concentration/focus. first time in a while. 34. 40 y/o male with neonatal hypoxia, After topical CBD application to neck, attentional problems, seizures/cortical sensation of “white noise” distracting him irritability, insomnia. decreased and felt more focused. Will be using it 2x/day.

Example 9

In Example 9, 13 patients having headaches and neck pain were treated with topical CBD at the back of the neck. The treatment comprised a dose of either 15 mg or 30 mg cannabinoid drugs, with the majority being CBD, the source of the CBD being CBD oil commercially available from CannaVest. Table 3 below provides treatment information and results.

TABLE 3 1. 45 y/o female s/p auto accident with Chronic daily headaches resolved after daily intractable headaches and neck pain. Chronic CBD cream use. Remains headache free and migraines since high school. discontinued CBD. 2. 69 y/o female with head injury and subdural Headaches and neck pain improved 30% with hematoma with severe headaches and neck CBD cream to neck. pain. 3. 73 y/o female with occipital neuralgia and All pain symptoms resolved after 3 weeks of trigeminal neuralgia of 3 years duration. daily CBD use. 4. 23 y/o female with long-standing severe 50% reduction in pain and improved mobility TMJ pain. after CBD application to the TMJ and back of neck. 5. 60 y/o female with 3 months of continuous After one treatment with CBD, headache pain headaches, getting no relief with chronic diminished 50% for the first time. Prescribed narcotic use, topical CBD to the back of neck 3x/day. 6. 24 y/o female with chronic headaches, s/p Within several minutes of topical CBD sinus surgeries, and attentional problems. Daily application to back of neck, headache relieved headaches for 10 years. over 40%; mother noted her eyes were brighter and she was less tense. After week of daily use, headache free days for first time in 10 years. 7. 70 y/o male s/p head injury with post- 5 minutes after topical CBD to back of neck, concussive syndrome, PTSD, neck pain and reduction in head and neck pain by 50% with headaches; on regular use hydromorhone and reduced size of knot in neck. Also, more calm, hydrocodone. Used CBD mist in past. less anxious, and breathing easier. 8. 39 y/o female s/p auto accident with head Headache and neck pain resolved 5-10 minutes injury, headaches, neck pain, and cognitive after topical CBD. Patient continues with problems. 2x/day use. 9. 48 y/o male with 10 days of right Bell's After CBD application to back of neck and palsy and pain in back of neck. Finished 2 region of stylomastoid foramen, right facial courses of oral steroids. weakness and decreased sensation improved 30%. Neck pain resolved. 10. 89 y/o female s/p auto accident with head Has been using topical CBD to the neck 1- and neck injury with persistent neck pain with 2x/day with benefit for past 2 months. Injury right arm pain and weakness. was over 2 years ago. 11. 78 y/o female RN s/p fall 1 yr. ago with 5 minutes after topical CBD application to persistent neck pain and decreased ROM the neck, pain resolve and ROM improved neck to the right. MRI shows spinal stenosis 80%. Will continue to use daily. and severe spondylosis. 12. 51 y/o female with chronic headaches, On 2 occasions of severe headache, previously on narcotics and pain pump. PTSD used topical CBD application to the and mood disorder. neck; with pain going from 8 to 2 of 10 and from 8 to 3 within 15 minutes. Now using regularly. 13. 46 y/o female with 2 months daily One dose of topical CBD relieved headaches and neck pain. MRI brain consistent chronic headache and improved range with pseudotumor cerebri. of motion of neck. 14. 54 y/o female s/p auto accident with Chronic back pain improved 30% concussion and back injury 3 years ago. MRI within 15 minutes after topical CBD shows lumbar disc herniation. application to the lower back. 15. 41 y/o female with acute back pain with Pain resolved after several radiation into thigh from lifting injury. treatments with topical CBD to the back. 16. 62 y/o female with 2 years of severe Thoracic pain reduced 30% within post-herpetic neuralgia/shingles. 10 minutes of topical CBD application to the thoracic spin in distribution of the pain.

Example 10

In Example 10, 16 patients having back/spine pain, fibromyalgia, and/or extremity pain were treated with topical CBD at the back of the neck. The treatment comprised a dose of either 15 mg or 30 mg cannabinoid drugs, with the majority being CBD, the source of the CBD being CBD oil commercially available from CannaVest. Table 4 below provides treatment information and results.

TABLE 4 1. 63 y/o female with fibromyalgia, chronic Now off narcotics and on topical CBD to the back pain on narcotics. back of neck and back 3x/day; pain relief within 2 minutes of application. 2. 79 y/o female with fibromyalgia, peripheral Pain relief lasts several days after single neuropathy, and lumbar radiculopathy. applications of topical CBD. 3. 80 y/o female with cervical radiculopathy 50% reduction in pain in 5 minutes. and chronic neck pain. 4. 28 y/o female with 2 years of thoracic pain. 60% reduction in chronic pain within a few minutes; now using daily. 5. Cervical and lumbar degenerative disc After one treatment with CBD, decreased pain disease with left arm and leg pain with poor allowed patient to walk better and stand more posture. erect. 6. 52 y/o male s/p shoulder surgery on Within several minutes of topical CBD narcotics with persistent pain and immobility application to shoulder and back of neck, pain of shoulder. diminished 40% with improved mobility. 7. 74 y/o male with rheumatoid arthritis, 30-40% knee pain relief in 5 minutes. peripheral neuropathy, and knee pain after surgery. 8. 38 y/o male with right hand numbness and Right hand symptoms improved after topical tingling, seizures CBD. 9. 46 y/o female with persistent right knee pain. Significant relief in knee pain within several minutes. 10. 29 y/o male with 3 month history of 6 of 10 left lower extremity pain reduced to intractable back and left leg pain, minimally 2/10 after 10 minutes with improved strength responsive to steroid dose-pack. Has been in left leg. unable to sleep as result of aching leg pain. 11. 73 y/o female with long history of Topical CBD to the lower back provided pain fibromyalgia, back pain, and peripheral relief better than Tramadol. neuropathy on Tramadol and Lyrica. 12. 73 y/o male with lumbar spinal stenosis and Topical CBD to the lower back resulted in neurogenic claudication. improved mobility and back pain relief within 10 minutes. 13. 59 y/o female with 2 weeks of neck pain Within 15 minutes of topical CBD application and immobility turning neck to right. MRI to neck, improved range of motion and shows severe osteoarthritis of C1-2. diminished pain. 14. 54 y/o female s/p auto accident with Chronic back pain improved 30% within 15 concussion and back injury 3 years ago. MRI minutes after topical CBD application to the shows lumbar disc herniation. lower back. 15. 41 y/o female with acute back pain with Pain resolved after several treatments with radiation into thigh from lifting injury. topical CBD to the back. 16. 62 y/o female with 2 years of severe post- Thoracic pain reduced 30% within 10 minutes herpetic neuralgia/shingles. of topical CBD application to the thoracic spine in distribution of the pain.

Example 11

In Example 11, 6 patients having Parkinson's disease, tremors, or movement disorders were treated with topical CBD at the back of the neck. The treatment comprised a dose of either 15 mg or 30 mg cannabinoid drugs, with the majority being CBD, the source of the CBD being CBD oil commercially available from CannaVest. Table 5 below provides treatment information and results.

TABLE 5 1. 74 y/o female with long-term Parkinson's On topical CBD 3x/day, 50% decrease in and tremors. tremors with less anxiety. 2. 42 y/o female 4 yrs. Intractable left hemi- Facial twitching improved after 5 minutes; now facial spasms s/p numerous Botox injections using 3x/day. and different meds. 3. 68 y/o male with long history of Tremors improved 50% after 2 months use. familial/essential tremors. 4. 78 y/o female RN with life-long head Head tremors improved 80% in 15 minutes tremors unresponsive to prior therapies after one application of topical CBD to back of neck. Will use daily. 5. 77 y/o male, retired dentist with tremors, Handwriting sample and alertness improved 10 memory loss, and strokes. minutes after topical CBD 3% application to the back of neck. 6. 85 y/o male with strokes and Parkinson's 10 minutes after topical CBD application to the disease with gait problems. On Sinernet and back of neck, visible improvement in fluidity Azilect. of gait with resolved festination/small steppage.

Example 12

In Example 12, 19 patients having acute and chronic neurological and psychiatric conditions were treated with topical CBD at the back of the neck. The treatment comprised a dose of either 15 mg or 30 mg cannabinoid drugs, with the majority being CBD, the source of the CBD being CBD crystalline powder oil commercially available from CannaVest. Table 6 below provides treatment information and results.

TABLE 6 1. 65y/o male with chronic neck, back, and leg After one application of 1% CBD to neck and pain on narcotics. back, pain in previous areas decreased additional 30% from prior baseline. 2. 62 y/o female with anxiety and mood After application of 1% CBD to back of neck, disorder. visibly improved mood and less anxiety. Became “giggly.” 3. 78 y/o male with lumbar degenerative disc After application of 1% CBD to lower back, disease with left leg weakness improved strength of left leg and resolved back pain. 4. 28 y/o female with post-concussive 1% CBD application to back of neck improved syndrome, with lethargy, cognitive dysfunction EEG disorganization and patient became more and abnormal EEG. alert and spontaneous. 5. 55 y/o male s/p remote stroke with spastic Within several minutes of 1% topical CBD right hemiparesis and expressive aphasia. application to back of neck and right forearm, spasticity improved with better movement of affected extremity. 6. 24 y/o female with neck and back pain. Pain and pressure went down 50% within 1 minute of applying 1% topical CBD to neck and back. 7. 61 y/o female with long history of neck and 1% CBD application to back of neck improved back pain, headaches on narcotics and using pain within three minutes. Stated worked better 3% oil-based CBD topical cream. than oil-based CBD she had been using. 8. 29 y/o male with anxiety and left shoulder 1% topical CBD to neck and left shoulder pain, smokes marijuana daily for relief of reduced anxiety and decreased shoulder symptoms. pain 20% within a few minutes. 9. 81 y/o female with cognitive dysfunction Applied 0.75% topical CBD to neck and 1% to and back pain. back with patient feeling more alert and responsive, back pain diminished. 10. 20 y/o male with frontal head injury, 1.5% powdered topical CBD cream had more agitation, and hallucinations of oil-based CBD pronounced effect on anxiety and agitation. topical cream, Lamictal. 11. 24 y/o female s/p auto accident with neck 1.5% topical CBD reduced neck tension and tension and pain. pain, improved range of motion. 12. 72 y/o female with severe back and lower 2% topical CBD cream to lower back relieved extremity neuropathic pain. back and lower extremity neuropathic pain. 13. 80 y/o female with Parkinson's disease and 1% topical CBD applied to back of neck tremors of head and left upper extremity. resulted in less anxiety, reduced tremors and improved gait with arm swing. 14. 87 y/o female with cervical spondylosis, Topical CBD 1% to back of neck improved tremors of left hand. range of motion and reduced tremors. 15. 56 y/o male s/p head injury with cognitive 1% topical CBD to neck resulted in improved problems, focus issues, mood swings. focus, clearer thinking, and reduced anxiety. 16. 84 y/o female with multi-infarct state, 1% topical CBD cream to back of neck dementia, and agitation with anxiety. improved agitation and patient became more cooperative. 17. 42 y/o female with neck tension, pain, and 2% topical CBD cream to back of neck headaches. relieved neck pain and tension from 8 of 10 to 2 in few minutes. 18. 58 y/o female s/p numerous facial plastic 1.5% topical CBD cream to the left eye brow surgeries with neuropathic pain over left eye and back of neck reduced anxiety and relieved brow. neuropathic pain. Had been using oil based CBD cream. 19. 67 y/o female with strokes, s/p concussion, Had been using 3% topical oil-based CBD with anxiety and cognitive problems. cream. 1.5% powdered CBD cream further relieved anxiety and improved demeanor.

Example 13

In Example 13, 6 year old male suffering from a cerebellar posterior fossa cyst, generalized seizure manifesting as standing and staring and unresponsive was treating in accordance with the present invention. FIG. 2 is an EEG showing a baseline EEG of the patient of Example 13. It revealed findings consistent with absent seizures, i.e., three per second spike and slow wave with generalized complexes. Previously, ethosuximide had been recommended for treatment, but the parents were reluctant to have the patient on a systemic convulsant therapy in view of the potential side effects. The patient was treated with a 2% CBD cream to the nuchal (back of the neck) region twice a day. After two weeks, the dosage regimen was changed to one application per day.

At the two week check-up, the patient was bright, awake, alert, oriented and nonfocal. The doctor was told that the patient was no long bed wetting, and significant improvement was noted by the patient's teachers (who had not been told that he was on a medication). His reading levels had increased two levels, and he was more focused and paying attention and his homework time was much easier. No seizures were noted.

FIG. 3 is an EEG showing an EEG post-treatment (i.e., after application of a topical unit dose of cannabinoid drugs) of the patient of Example 13 at 5 minutes after the start of therapy. It showed attenuated seizure focus. FIG. 4 is an EEG showing the EEG post-treatment (i.e., after application of a topical unit dose of cannabinoid drugs) of the patient of Example 13 at 8 minutes after the start of therapy. It showed a further attenuation of seizure focus as compared to the EEG shown in FIG. 3.

Example 14

In Example 14, a 24 year old male patient had a head injury at age 14 when he was run over by a truck. He presented with seizures (intractable complex partial seizures with secondary generalization; episodes of encephalopathy for 24 hours thereafter). As shown in FIG. 5, an EEG taken at initial examination (treatment with Vimpat and Onfi/clobazam only) showed right fronto-central excessive beta and sharp waves. He had had 5 craniotomies, and previously had been treated with Dilantin, Carbatrol, Keppra, Lamictal, and Depakote. His current medications were Vimpat and Onfi (clobazam).

The patient was treated with 1 g of 1.6% CBD cream to the nuchal (back of the neck) region twice a day. At his one year follow-up examination, the patient was seizure-free. A follow-up EEG taken at that time (FIG. 6) post-treatment with the 16 mg nuchal topical CBD administration twice daily showed right fast activity and sharp waves attenuated. The follow-up EEG showed improvement: he was no longer showing seizure potential. The patient remained on Vimpat, and his dose of Onfi was reduced by half. At the time of patent filing, the patient was on continuous use of topical CBD for 20 months and remained seizure-free since June 2014.

Example 15

In Example 15, a 16 year old male patient presented with autism and generalized seizures. He was uncontrolled on Lamictal, Depakote, Keppra, Zonegran, ethosuximide/Zarontin. When examined, he presented with seizures about every 2 weeks on Banzel, Onfi, and Topamax as antiepileptics. FIG. 7 is a baseline EEG taken at the initial examination, showing seizure focus, showing generalized slowing and disorganization with left frontal sharp waves and paroxysms of sharp waves and spikes.

The patient was treated with 1 g of 2% CBD cream to the nuchal (back of the neck). Within one minute of CBD application, there was improvement in the EEG background without previous burst activity (see FIG. 8, which shows right fast activity and sharp waves attenuated). Clinically, the patient became more alert and interactive. He continued therapy with the topical CBD cream to the nuchal region twice daily, and the Topamax was tapered off, resulting in added overall improved encephalopathy. Seizure frequency also was reduced, but the patient still had behavioral issues remaining.

Example 16

In Example 16, a 67 year old male patient presented with stroke and focal seizures, autism and generalized seizures. FIG. 9 is a baseline EEG taken at the initial examination, showing left fronto-central seizure focus.

The patient was treated with 1 g of 1.6% CBD cream to the nuchal (back of the neck). An EEG was re-taken 10 minutes after application of the CBD dose, and showed attenuated seizure focus (FIG. 10). The patient remains seizure free about 9 months after initiation of twice a day CBD treatment to the nuchal region, which is also helping his spastic weakness from the stroke. He was able to return to work as a veterinarian and do surgery, which was unexpected as his Rehab MD had previously advised him that we would have to retire.

Example 17

In Example 17, a 7 year old male patient presented with atonic seizures. The patient would suddenly freeze and fall down (e.g., riding a bike, at school, etc.). FIG. 11 is a baseline EEG taken at the initial examination, showing cortical irritability on the left central region c/w potential for seizures.

The patient was treated with 1 g of 1.6% CBD cream to the nuchal (back of the neck). An EEG was re-taken 10 minutes after application of the CBD dose, and showed attenuated seizure focus. FIG. 13 is a brain MRI of the patient showing a left thalamic hamartoma, a benign developmental process, likely irritating the brain and causing his seizures. The patient has been seizure-free since initiating topical CBD therapy in the nuchal region in October 2015 and is only on CBD as a mediation for his seizures.

Example 18

In Example 18, 19 patients having a variety of conditions were treated with topical CBD as set forth in Table 7 below. The CBD was compounded in crystalline powder form rather than in CBD-oil form into the topical cream. The doses were 7.5 mg (0.75% topical CBD cream), 10 mg (1% topical CBD cream), 15 mg (1.5% topical CBD cream) or 20 mg (2% topical CBD cream).

TABLE 7 1. 65 y/o male with chronic neck, back, and leg After one application of 1% CBD to neck and pain on narcotics. back, pain in previous areas decreased additional 30% from prior baseline. 2. 62 y/o female with anxiety and mood After application of 1% CBD to back of neck, disorder. visibly improved mood and less anxiety. Became “giggly.” 3. 78 y/o male with lumbar degenerative disc After application of 1% CBD to lower back, disease with left leg weakness improved strength of left leg and resolved back pain. 4. 28 y/o female with post-concussive 1% CBD application to back of neck improved syndrome, with lethargy, cognitive dysfunction EEG disorganization and patient became more and abnormal EEG. alert and spontaneous. 5. 55 y/o male s/p remote stroke with spastic Within several minutes of 1% topical CBD right hemiparesis and expressive aphasia. application to back of neck and right forearm, spasticity improved with better movement of affected extremity. 6. 24 y/o female with neck and back pain. Pain and pressure went down 50% within 1 minute of applying 1% topical CBD to neck and back. 7. 61 y/o female with long history of neck and 1% CBD application to back of neck improved back pain, headaches on narcotics and using pain within three minutes. Stated worked better 3% oil-based CBD topical cream. than oil-based CBD she had been using. 8. 29 y/o male with anxiety and left shoulder 1% topical CBD to neck and left shoulder pain, smokes marijuana daily for relief of reduced anxiety and decreased shoulder pain symptoms. 20% within a few minutes. 9. 81 y/o female with cognitive dysfunction Applied 0.75% topical CBD to neck and 1% to and back pain. back with patient feeling more alert and responsive, back pain diminished. 10. 20 y/o male with frontal head injury, 1.5% powdered topical CBD cream had more agitation, and hallucinations of oil-based CBD pronounced effect on anxiety and agitation. topical cream, Lamictal. 11. 24 y/o female s/p auto accident with neck 1.5% topical CBD reduced neck tension and tension and pain. pain, improved range of motion. 12. 72 y/o female with severe back and lower 2% topical CBD cream to lower back relieved extremity neuropathic pain. back and lower extremity neuropathic pain. 13. 80 y/o female with Parkinson's disease 1% topical CBD applied to back of neck and tremors of head and left upper extremity. resulted in less anxiety, reduced tremors and improved gait with arm swing. 14. 87 y/o female with cervical spondylosis, topical CBD 1% to back of neck improved tremors of left hand. range of motion and reduced tremors. 15. 56 y/o male s/p head injury with cognitive 1% topical CBD to neck resulted in improved problems, focus issues, mood swings. focus, clearer thinking, and reduced anxiety. 16. 84 y/o female with multi-infarct state, 1% topical CBD cream to back of neck dementia, and agitation with anxiety. improved agitation and patient became more cooperative. 17. 42 y/o female with neck tension, pain, and 2% topical CBD cream to back of neck headaches. relieved neck pain and tension from 8 of 10 to 2 in few minutes. 18. 58 y/o female s/p numerous facial plastic 1.5% topical CBD cream to the left eye brow surgeries with neuropathic pain over left eye and back of neck reduced anxiety and relieved brow. neuropathic pain. Had been using oil based CBD cream. 19. 67 y/o female with strokes, s/p concussion, Had been using 3% topical oil-based CBD with anxiety and cognitive problems. cream. 1.5% powdered CBD cream further relieved anxiety and improved demeanor.

CONCLUSION

The examples provided above are not meant to be exclusive. Many other variations of the present invention would be obvious to those skilled in the art, and are contemplated to be within the scope of the appended claims.

The hypotheses of the inventor provided throughout the specification are for possible explanation purposes only, and are not meant to be limiting in any way. 

The invention claimed is:
 1. A method of treating a disease state or condition in human with a cannabinoid drug(s) comprising administering a cannabinoid drug(s) in a therapeutically effective amount to treat the disease state or condition, topically onto the skin at the back of the neck region of a human patient to provide regional neuro-affective therapy to the human patient, wherein the back of the neck region comprises the area or region extending from behind one ear to the other ear of the human patient and from the back of the head to below the hairline at the back of the neck of the human patient.
 2. The method of claim 1, wherein cannabinoid drug(s) is formulated in a vehicle that allows for the drug to be immediately absorbable and available for the free nerve endings of the trigeminal nervous system which reside under the skin surface at the back of the neck when the formulation is applied to the back of the neck of a human patient in the form of a cream, gel or ointment, and the disease state or condition is treated via the central nervous system (CNS).
 3. The method of claim 1, wherein the cannabinoid drug(s) is administered such that the cannabinoid drug(s) is absorbed through the skin where the afferent components of trigeminal nerve system, cervical sympathetic nerves, and vagus nerve are located.
 4. The method of claim 1, wherein the cannabinoid drug(s) is administered in a topical pharmaceutical formulation at the back of the neck at the hairline of the human patient.
 5. The method of claim 1, wherein the cannabinoid drug(s) comprise a mixture of pharmaceutically acceptable cannabinoids, such that the mixture provides substantially no psychoactive effect or no psychoactive effect.
 6. The method of claim 1, wherein the cannabinoid drug(s) comprises at least about 80% cannabidiol.
 7. The method of claim 4, wherein the topical pharmaceutical formulation comprises a pharmaceutically acceptable aqueous based carrier.
 8. The method of claim 1, wherein the cannabinoid drug(s) in the pharmaceutical formulation comprises at least about 80% cannabidiol.
 9. The method of claim 1, wherein the topical pharmaceutical formulation further comprises an effective amount of a pharmaceutically acceptable penetration enhancer.
 10. The method of claim 9, wherein the penetration enhancer is selected from the group consisting of isostearic acid, octanoic acid, oleic acid, oleyl alcohol, lauryl alcohol, ethyl oleate, isopropyl myristate, butyl stearate, methyl laurate, diisopropyl adipate, glyceryl monolaurate, tetrahydrofurfuryl alcohol polyethylene glycol ether, polyethylene glycol, propylene glycol, 2-(2-ethoxyethoxy)ethanol, diethylene glycol monomethyl ether, diethylene glycol monoethyl ether, alkylaryl ethers of polyethylene oxide, polyethylene oxide monomethyl ethers, polyethylene oxide dimethyl ethers, dimethyl sulfoxide, glycerol, ethyl acetate, acetoacetic ester, N-alkylpyrrolidone, terpenes, and mixtures of any of the foregoing.
 11. The method of claim 1, wherein the cannabinoid drug(s) comprises cannabidiol.
 12. The method of claim 11, wherein cannabidiol is incorporated into the pharmaceutically acceptable carrier from a CBD-oil.
 13. The method of claim 11, wherein cannabidiol incorporated into the pharmaceutically acceptable carrier is a purified crystalline CBD.
 14. The method of claim 7, wherein the cannabinoid drug(s) is administered in a topical pharmaceutical formulation comprising liposomes.
 15. The method of claim 11, wherein the topical administration comprises from about 3 mg to about 50 mg cannabidiol.
 16. The method of claim 1, further comprising formulating the cannabinoid drug(s) in a pharmaceutically acceptable topical aqueous-based carrier, and applying a sufficient amount to the back of the neck region of the human patient such that the onset of a therapeutic effect occurs in less than about 30 minutes.
 17. The method of claim 15, further comprising administering the topical pharmaceutical formulation on a once a day basis, or on a twice a day basis, a three times a day basis, or on a four times a day basis.
 18. The method of claim 15, wherein the topical formulation is a cannabinoid drug mixture concentrate that includes from about 0 to about 3% tetrahydrocannabinol, from about 0 to about 1% tetrahydrocannabinolic acid, from about 20 to about 50% cannabidiol, from about 0 to about 1% cannabidiolic acid, and from about 0 to about 1% cannabinol, for a total active cannabinoid level of from about 20% to about 50%, and the remaining cannabinoids are substantially therapeutically inactive.
 19. The method of claim 15, wherein the cannabinoid drug(s) in the topical pharmaceutical formulation are at a concentration from about 0.75% to about 5%, by weight.
 20. The method of claim 1, wherein the treatment further comprises further comprises topically administering to the back of the neck region together simultaneously or sequentially an additional drug(s) selected from the group consisting of an anti-epileptic, an anxiolytic, a neuroleptic, an anti-psychotic, an analgesic, an anti-inflammatory, an anti-Parkinson's disease/syndrome drug, a drug for the treatment of dystonia, a drug for the treatment of spastic conditions, a drug for the treatment of benign essential/familial tremor, a drug for the treatment of tremor related to MS, a drug for the treatment of chronic encephalopathies, a drug for the treatment of congenital CNS degeneration conditions/cerebral palsy, a drug for the treatment of cerebellar degeneration syndromes, a drug for the treatment of neuropathic and/or neurogenic pain, a drug for appetite suppression, a drug for neurodegenerative conditions, a drug for the treatment of multiple sclerosis, a drug for the treatment of insomnia, a drug for the treatment of fatigue, a drug for the treatment of vertigo, nausea and/or dizziness, a drug for the treatment of writer's cramp and restless leg syndrome, and a combination of any of the foregoing.
 21. The method of claim 7, wherein the carrier is a gel or cream.
 22. The method of claim 21, wherein the pharmaceutical formulation further comprises at least one adjuvant selected from the group consisting of a penetration enhancer, anti-oxidant, stabilizer, and mixtures thereof to the carrier.
 23. The method of claim 11, wherein the unit dose of the cannabinoid drug(s) includes from about 1 mg to about 200 mg cannabinoid drug(s) and the cannabinoid drug(s) comprise at least 80% cannabidiol.
 24. The method of claim 1, wherein the disease state or condition is selected from the group consisting of seizures; epilepsy; encephalopathy; spasticity; weakness; pain; neuropathic pain; numbness and/or tingling; anxiety and other mood disorders; hypertension and autonomic dysfunction; Parkinson's disease and tremors; insomnia; Bell's palsy and facial nerve dysfunction; glaucoma; multiple sclerosis; cancer; post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD); trigeminal neuralgia; hemi-facial spasms; Autism/Asperger's; Attention Deficit Disorder and Hyperactivity; social isolation; occipital neuralgia; temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ) related symptoms; cognitive problems; headaches; peripheral neuropathy; Dravet syndrome; apnea; smoking cessation; arthritis; rheumatoid arthritis; depression; emesis; HIV-wasting; anti-obesity; nausea; vomiting; alcohol use disorders; dystonia; inflammatory bowel syndrome; neuropathic pain associated with post-herpetic neuralgia; diabetic neuropathy; shingles; burns; actinic keratosis; oral cavity sores and ulcers; post-episiotomy pain; psoriasis; pruritis; contact dermatitis; eczema; bullous dermatitis herpetiformis; exfoliative dermatitis; mycosis fungoides; pemphigus; severe eryththema multiforme; seborrheic dermatitis; ankylosing spondylitis; psoriatic arthritis; Reiter's syndrome; gout; chondrocalcinosis; joint pain; dysmenorrhea; musculoskeletal pain; molymyositis; bursitis; epicondylitis; osteoarthritis; synovitis; and pancreatitis.
 25. A method of treating a disease or condition in a human with a cannabinoid drug(s), comprising topically applying a unit dose of a cannabinoid drug(s) onto the surface of skin on the patient at the back of the neck region of the human patient extending from behind one ear to the other ear and from the back of the head to below the hairline at the back of the neck of the human patient, the unit dose containing a therapeutically effective amount of a cannabinoid drug(s) formulated in a vehicle that allows for the drug to be absorbable and available for the free nerve endings of the trigeminal nervous system which reside under the skin surface, such that the unit dose provides regional neuro-affective therapy does not provide therapeutic systemic blood levels of the cannabinoid drug(s) to the human patient.
 26. The method of claim 25, wherein the unit dose comprises from about 3 mg to about 50 mg cannabidiol and the disease state or condition is selected from the group consisting of seizures; epilepsy; encephalopathy; spasticity; weakness; pain; neuropathic pain; numbness and/or tingling; anxiety and other mood disorders; hypertension and autonomic dysfunction; Parkinson's disease and tremors; insomnia; Bell's palsy and facial nerve dysfunction; glaucoma; multiple sclerosis; cancer; post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD); trigeminal neuralgia; hemi-facial spasms; Autism/Asperger's; Attention Deficit Disorder and Hyperactivity; social isolation; occipital neuralgia; temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ) related symptoms; cognitive problems; headaches; peripheral neuropathy; Dravet syndrome; apnea; smoking cessation; arthritis; rheumatoid arthritis; depression; emesis; HIV-wasting; anti-obesity; nausea; vomiting; alcohol use disorders; dystonia; inflammatory bowel syndrome; neuropathic pain associated with post-herpetic neuralgia; diabetic neuropathy; shingles; burns; actinic keratosis; oral cavity sores and ulcers; post-episiotomy pain; psoriasis; pruritis; contact dermatitis; eczema; bullous dermatitis herpetiformis; exfoliative dermatitis; mycosis fungoides; pemphigus; severe eryththema multiforme; seborrheic dermatitis; ankylosing spondylitis; psoriatic arthritis; Reiter's syndrome; gout; chondrocalcinosis; joint pain; dysmenorrhea; musculoskeletal pain; molymyositis; bursitis; epicondylitis; osteoarthritis; synovitis; and pancreatitis.
 27. The method of claim 1, wherein the disease state or condition is treated via the central nervous system (CNS) drug delivery for brainstem related disorders. 